Research Technician II - Newmark Lab

The lab of Dr. Phillip Newmark at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is looking for a collaborative and self-driven Research Technician II to assist with supporting the various research projects of the lab and handling all mouse surgeries required for various experiments.

The Newmark Lab is interested in elucidating intra-mammalian development of the parasite Schistosoma mansoni. Schistosomes are devastating human pathogens that penetrate mammalian skin, travel through the lungs, and ultimately reside in the blood stream where these parasites lay thousands of eggs a day that cause the pathologies associated with the disease schistosomiasis. The developmental transitions within the mammalian host, particularly the lungs, are largely mysterious and present an opportunity to understand host-parasite interactions that enable schistosome development.  More information on the Newmark lab can be found on their website or Twitter: @planapalooza.

To be considered for this role, please apply via the link provided.  Interviewing for this role will begin in November. Please include a cover letter with your application.

Principal Responsibilities

• Will perform mouse surgical procedures and a variety of highly technical experiments that require sterile technique, care, and dexterity.
  • This role will be responsible for all mouse surgeries within the lab, and will work with a variety of researchers to determine technique design and to manage scheduling.
• Will manage adherence to institutional biosafety and animal care and use standards, and keep compliance records/logs up-to-date.
• Assist in the design and execution of projects relating to the intra-mammalian development of schistosomes within a team of researchers.
• Will maintain the parasite lifecycle which involves snail and mouse hosts.
• Conduct literature reviews to be used in determining most suitable research methods.
• Prepare and present written or oral progress reports concerning studies, including assembly, organization, and interpretation of data.
• Present data to the entire lab (~1-2 times a year), and occasionally at scientific meetings.
• Train others in technical protocols.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related area, or equivalent experience
  • Graduate degree a plus
• At least one year of prior wetlab experience
• Prior experience with mouse handling strongly preferred.
  • Prior experience with surgery strongly preferred (technique agnostic).

• Excellent troubleshooting and organizational abilities.
• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Collaborative spirit and a willingness to dive in where help is needed within the lab.

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).  

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. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer