Research Technician - Chouchani Lab at Howard Hughes Medical Institute; HHMI Boston, MA

Research Technician - Chouchani Lab job at Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). Boston, MA.

We have an opportunity for a Research Technician to join the Chouchani lab at the Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute
. We tend to think of metabolites as simple building blocks and fuel for biological processes. But many metabolites appear to play crucial roles in regulating living systems. This concept of metabolite signaling remains poorly understood at the biochemical level, and we still do not understand how most metabolite signals work. Edward Chouchani’s lab is developing new technologies to better understand the rules of the language of core metabolite signals.

The hope is that by understanding how nature uses metabolism to regulate biological systems, we will have new opportunities for treating human disease. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting

The Edward Chouchani Lab has an exciting new opportunity for a research technician I position. The Chouchani Lab is located at the Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute and is affiliated with Harvard Medical School. This position will assist scientists in performing scientific research of varying complexity. Duties include working with laboratory mice and conducting basic molecular biology and cell biology techniques. Basic procedures include but are not limited to pipetting, cell and tissue culture, handling of small laboratory animals, etc.

There will be continuous learning opportunities, and the position will be a good steppingstone for those interested in biomedical research.

• Ample opportunities and support for upskilling. Coworkers that assist in learning new techniques/skills.
• Mentorship opportunities.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, as well as opportunities to make scientific contributions.
• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• Assisting postdocs and students with cell-based assays, which will involve maintenance of cell lines and perform routine molecular and cellular biology experiments (e.g., qPCR, western blot, sequencing, plasmid purification and bacterial transformation).
• Assisting with biochemical techniques such as protein purification and quantification, enzyme assays and metabolite measurements.
• Maintenance of Chouchani Lab animal (laboratory mouse) colony, including weaning, tail biopsies, DNA preparation and genotyping by PCR.
• Procurement tasks such as ordering, checking off deliveries, distributing packages and maintaining stocks of consumables.
• General lab management, organization and day‑to‑day operations.

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in biology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience in molecular and/or cell biology.
• Previous experience working in a medical or scientific research setting is preferred.
• Must be self‑motivated and an independent worker with excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
• Prior experience with stem cell culture (hESCs, hiPSCs, or related systems)
• Familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, western blot, cloning)
• Experience with genetic sequencing and basic data analysis.

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.

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.