Research Technolgist
Dr. Jeff Mumm’s laboratory (Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University) is seeking a Research Technologist. The goal of the research is to understand how neural circuits are formed, how they function, and how they can be regenerated. We utilize zebrafish for our studies due to significant advantages afforded by this model system. The most important advantage being that zebrafish have a robust regenerative capacity that extends even to the nervous system. We also use cell-type specific labelling methods and confocal microscopy to make movies of how cells develop and/or behave directly in living animals. In addition, the lab is conducting a chemical drug screen to identify small molecule compounds that enhance the ability of zebrafish to regenerate lost tissues. This multi-prong approach facilitates investigations that allow us to visualize how neural circuits are established and identify genetic factors that regulate regenerate. In addition, the chemical drug screen will serve to reveal possible therapeutic targets in various human degenerative diseases.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
- The position will require a thorough understanding and vigilant implementation of standard scientific methods.
- The Research Technologist will be expected to gain an understanding of the theory behind experiments and apply critical analytical skills during assigned projects in order to identify key findings and trouble-shoot problems; attention to detail is extremely important.
- Help maintain and monitor a large Zebrafish facility (assist with feedings, animal husbandry/general care, genotyping, creating and maintaining transgenic lines)
- Conduct routine assays analyzing small chemical compounds and/or genetic mutations for their ability to effect regeneration.
- Help maintain and monitor various shared index databases.
- Transgenic plasmid preparation and microinjection.
- Assist other research personnel in the lab as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Some related post-undergraduate work experience.
- Previous research related work experience, in particular with the following techniques/experiences: Zebrafish husbandry (e.g. general care, breeding, genotyping, phenotyping, drug treatments), High resolution imaging (fluorescence and confocal microscopy), Histological and immunological tissue processing, and standard Molecular Biology techniques.
- The Technician must be able to work both independently and in a collaborative manner with a diverse group of researchers.
Classified Title: Research Technologist
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CC
Starting Salary Range: $15.50 - $26.00 HRLY (Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 pm
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Hybrid/School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Oph Ocular Genetics Research Center
Personnel area: School of Medicine