Research Specialist III - Vosshall Lab

Primary Work Address: 1230 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065 Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science. We have an amazing opportunity for a Research Specialist III to join the Vosshall lab at Rockefeller University in New York City. Led by Dr. Leslie Vosshall, HHMI’s Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer, the lab is interested in the molecular neurobiology of mosquito host-seeking behavior. Mosquitoes require a blood meal to complete egg development, and in carrying out this innate behavior, they spread dangerous viruses including dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, and yellow fever. The lab has developed CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing in the Aedes aegypti mosquito with the goal of understanding how behaviors emerge from the integration of sensory input with internal physiological states. More information about the lab’s work can be found by visiting https://www.rockefeller.edu/research/2355-vosshall-laboratory/ About the Research Specialist III role: This is a multidimensional role that spans academic, research, and lab member mentoring support responsibilities where you will serve as a trusted leader, researcher, trainer, mentor, project planner, and scientific advisor to the lab in collaboration with Dr. Vosshall. This role is ideal for you if you enjoy the excitement of a world-class scientific laboratory and welcome the challenge of a fast-paced environment that maintains a strong commitment to a positive and inclusive lab climate. What we provide: A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits Opportunities for professional development and growth Mentoring the next generation of scientists in a collaborative, team-oriented environment Carry out your own research program alongside leadership and mentoring responsibilities What you’ll do: Academic: Reviewing drafts, editing, and providing feedback on manuscripts, thesis documents, thesis research proposals, and fellowship applications Providing assistance and feedback on figure design for manuscripts, thesis research proposals, fellowships, and presentations Assisting with literature surveys Building a network and assisting to connect mentees to relevant researchers, lab alumni, and colleagues Advising postdocs, students, and postbac research assistants on career choices and professional skills development Research: Carry out your independent research program in the area of mosquito neurogenetics and behavior Working with students to brainstorm research ideas and experiments Guide students on experimental design (RNA-FISH, RNA and DNA extraction, genotyping, primer design, sequencing, cloning, behavior, imaging, rearing for experiments, animal collection, how to work with specific genetically-modified mosquito lines, designing appropriate control experiments) Providing training and guidance with hands-on experiments (molecular biology, CRISPR-Cas9 and transgenic mosquito generation, RNA-FISH, Immunohistochemistry, staining and mounting techniques, genotyping, microscopy) Providing guidance on image analysis and statistics for behavioral assays Leading detailed experimental and project planning processes with mentees Solving technical issues in experiments in collaboration with mentees Offering guidance in bioinformatics, including support in designing and interpreting complex bioinformatics experiments Providing guidance on mosquito genetics and general support with molecular biology techniques Day-to-Day Lab Life: Providing moral support to mentees as needed due to failed experiments, work-related stress, etc. Advising on academic/scientific paths, career goals, and other facets of professional life Working with the Lab Manager to foster a positive and inclusive lab climate What you bring: A PhD in the biological sciences is required. Research focus in genetics, molecular biology, and/or neurobiology and behavior is strongly preferred At least 3 years of prior postdoctoral training is required Strong prior experience with experimental design, experimental execution, and project planning in an academic research role is required Exceptional scientific judgement and rigor Specific experience with RNA-FISH, data analysis, and bioinformatics is strongly preferred Exceptional leadership, mentorship, and training skills Excellent verbal and written communication skills Excellent organizational skills, time management skills, and attention to detail. High level of compassion and excellent interpersonal skills Proficient computer skills with demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite required. Proficiency in statistics and bioinformatics packages strongly preferred Please include a cover letter detailing your interest in this position as part of your application. Physical Requirements Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials. Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis. Please Note: This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Compensation and Benefits Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. Compensation Range $88,550.00 (minimum) - $110,700.00 (midpoint) - $143,865.00 (maximum) Pay Type: Annual HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range. HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because we believe in the power of individuals to make breakthroughs over time. Why HHMI To move science forward we need a diverse collection of talents, expertise, and backgrounds in scientific research and science education, as well as communications, finance, human resources, information technology, investments, law, and operations. At HHMI, we encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment where employees can do their best work. What makes us strong is the diversity of our perspectives. We work to promote a culture of inclusion in our work environments and across the greater scientific community. To find more information about us and the steps we're taking to make HHMI a more inclusive organization, visit our About Us page. A Note for Job Seekers Your best option for consideration in our career opportunities is to apply directly via our HHMI Careers site. There, you will learn more about HHMI and can find information about our available roles. Contact us at [email protected] if you require an accommodation related to completing the job application. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.