Basic and Translational Research Technician Position available

Mentor Areas

Enteric nervous system biology, developmental biology, environmental factors influencing health and disease, embryology, pediatric gastroenterology, microbiome, immune system, epithelial biology

Description:

Our work focuses on Hirschsprung Disease, a developmental disorder where neurons are absent from the distal colon. Without neurons, the bowel is unable to appropriately relax and allow passage of feces. This can result in constipation, microbial dysbiosis, and bowel wall inflammation. Our previous work has shown that diet can impact survival in a mouse model of Hirschsprung Disease caused by alterations of the microbiome, mitochondrial function, and the colon epithelial cell transcriptome.

This position will include strong mentorship for people pursuing an MD or MD/PhD and will also involve clinical shadowing for those interested. Fair credit and authorship will be granted for data produced and contributions made. A two-year commitment is preferred. The position is available immediately to start training with the current technician. Students must be able to start at least part time (at least 10 hours per week) before May 2025. 

Responsibilities include:

• Mouse husbandry and mouse handling
  • Maintaining survival studies and treatment plans (i.e., intraperitoneal injections, oral gavage)
• Molecular biology assays (immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR, etc.)
• Data quantification and analysis
• Clinical data analysis
  • R, SQL preferred but not required
• Troubleshooting experimental protocols 

Preferred Qualifications

• Wet lab experience (required)
• Experience with mouse handling (preferred)
• Completed or within 2 semesters of completing a bachelor’s degree in biology or biology-focused field (i.e., neuroscience, microbiology)
• Self-starting
• Organized
• Effective problem solver