Research Specialist, Flow Cytometry

Primary Work Address: 19700 Helix Drive, Ashburn, VA, 20147
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Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, where scientists pursue fundamental questions in neuroscience and imaging. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) launched Janelia in 2006, establishing an intellectually distinctive environment for scientists to do creative, collaborative, hands-on work. Our integrated teams of biologists, computational scientists, and tool-builders pursue a small number of scientific questions with potential for transformative impact. We share our methods, results, and tools with the scientific community. It is a uniquely innovative and collaborative atmosphere that reflects HHMI's reputation for excellence.
About the Role:
Are you a passionate individual with a strong interest in advancing scientific discoveries through cell biology research and cutting-edge Flow Cytometry and cell sorting techniques? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you to join the Flow Cytometry Shared Resource at Janelia as a Research Specialist. As a highly motivated and skilled professional, you will play a crucial role in supporting behavioral neuroscience research, focusing on naturalistic behaviors, cell-to-cell communication within and across tissues in the whole organism, and the development of molecular tools and imaging technology. Your main responsibilities will revolve around operating and maintaining three key instruments: CytoFLEX S, Sony SH800, and Bigfoot 9 Laser Spectral Sorter. Working closely with researchers, you will actively engage in understanding their scientific inquiries and provide essential technical and scientific support related to Flow Cytometry equipment and analysis software usage. You will perform the daily startup, shutdown, cleaning, and quality control, of each instrument, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of all equipment.
What We Provide:

• An opportunity for you to provide expertise in the use of Flow Cytometry techniques for basic science research.
• The opportunity to engage with world-class researchers, contribute to impactful science, and be part of a dynamic community committed to advancing humanity's understanding of fundamental scientific questions.
• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, a free gym, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service.

What You'll Do:

• Independently operate and maintain Flow Cytometry instruments, including the startup, shutdown, cleaning, and quality control procedures appropriate for the instrument.
• Assist researchers with the design of Flow Cytometry experiments, identifying the best instrument and fluorescent label appropriate for the experiment.
• Perform and assist with the data analysis and interpretation from Flow Cytometry experiments.
• Work with colleagues in Cell Culture and Molecular Genomics Shared Resources to create stable genetically modified cell lines, including iPSC, primary, and immortalized cell cultures.
• Compile key experiment data and results and make them available upon request.
• Develop and optimize SOPs and workflows for Flow Cytometry services.
• Train others in Flow Cytometry related protocols, processes, and use of instruments.
• Work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision.
• Manage projects, update progress, and perform other duties as assigned.

What You Bring:

• Master of Science degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or Life Science with two years of working experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the operation and maintenance of Flow Cytometry instrumentation.
• Demonstrated proficiency in the analysis of Flow Cytometry data.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and optimize Flow Cytometry and cell sorting protocols.
• Experience reviewing scientific literature, following technology development in Flow Cytometry and cell sorting, and apply new technologies to enhance productivity.
• Communication skills to interact with team members and users, and to update researchers on the status of work in progress.
• Demonstrated ability to write and prepare reports to summarize and present project scope and results

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
$67,540.00 (minimum) - $84,400.00 (midpoint) - $109,780.00 (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