Research Specialist I

The McBride Lab at Princeton University is looking for a lab technician to support research on the molecular, neural, and evolutionary basis of mosquito behavior. The technician will devote ~70% of his/her time to specific research projects and the remaining ~30% time to general lab maintenance and support. The technician will be welcomed as a full lab member, attending journal clubs and lab meetings and contributing to a dynamic and interactive lab atmosphere. This is a unique opportunity to become deeply involved in exciting research at the interface of evolution, genetics, and neuroscience and is well-suited for a recent college graduate looking for more experience/focus before graduate school. Research project activities may include:

• Mosquito breeding and behavioral experiments
• Generation of transgenic strains using CRISPR/Cas9
• Molecular biology studies including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning
• Preparation of high throughput sequencing libraries
• Odor collection and analysis using GC-Mass Spec

Essential Qualifications:
The interested candidate should have a bachelor’s degree in biology or related field and previous experience in a research laboratory (beyond lab classes). Previous experience rearing insects, studying behavior, and/or carrying out molecular biology protocols in a research setting is strongly preferred. A demonstrated interest in evolution, neuroscience, genomics and/or behavior is also preferred. It is essential that candidates be highly organized, detail-oriented, and demonstrate enthusiasm for working and communicating with others in a collaborative lab
setting.

General lab maintenance and support, including
• Maintaining insectary and mosquito colonies
• Maintaining lab equipment
• Preparing basic molecular biology reagents
• Helping with purchasing

Helping design and carry out specific research projections, which may include:
• Mosquito breeding and behavioral experiments
• Design and generation of transgenic strains using CRISPR/Cas9 technology
• Molecular biology studies including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cloning, immunohistochemistry
• Genomic studies including preparation of high throughput sequencing libraries
• Odor collection and analysis using GC-Mass Spec

Candidates must have previous experience in a research laboratory (beyond lab classes). It is also essential that candidates be highly organized, detail-oriented, and demonstrate enthusiasm for working and communicating with others in a collaborative lab setting.

Previous experience rearing insects, carrying out molecular biology protocols, or studying animal behavior is strongly preferred. A demonstrated interest in evolution, neuroscience, genomics and/or behavior is also preferred.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

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