Research Assistant III

Overview

Research Assistant III – Genetically Diverse Cardiomyocyte Screening Program, Hinson Lab. The Hinson lab is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Research Assistant to support a cutting-edge project focused on phenotyping cardiomyocytes derived from genetically diverse human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines. This research aims to understand the genetic basis of cardiotoxic responses and develop predictive models of cardiovascular health using high-throughput functional screening, transcriptomics, and metabolomics.

Additional skills of interest include human pluripotent stem cell handling, directed cardiomyocyte differentiation, high-throughput functional assays, contractility analyses and molecular profiling assays such as transcriptomics and metabolomics. The candidate will work at the intersection of genetics, physiology, and systems biology in a collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment. Gain experience with cutting-edge screening technologies and automated platforms. Contribute to translational research in cardiac safety pharmacology and personalized medicine.

• Proposes alternative research methods, techniques and initiatives demonstrating knowledge of other scientific areas and related research.
• Demonstrates scientific knowledge and analytical skills to monitor, modify, and design the research process. Designs, modifies, and troubleshoots highly specialized equipment.
• Independently expands scope of literature search to support and/or propose alternative experimental methods, procedures and/or techniques.
• Gathers information to prepare budget and proposes estimates for acquisition of supplies and equipment.
• Analyzes and resolves variations in complex tests, experiments and procedures; designs and implements modifications and changes to techniques, procedures and quality control measures.
• Leads multiple, concurrent projects and/or multi-faceted projects; directs others in making modifications.
• Evaluates documentation of results; leads efforts to modify and adapt research methodologies in collaboration with others; ensures compliance with regulatory standards.
• Manages laboratory resources, may include budget and personnel; establishes priorities in the use of resources including space, field, equipment and/or facilities.
• Understands research goals thoroughly; can instruct and inform others about past and future research directives. Coordinates with outside collaborators to explore new avenues of research. Shows willingness to teach as well as be taught.
• May have direct supervisory responsibilities and be accountable for training and development programs for assigned personnel; responsible for developing training and development programs to strengthen technical and management skills.

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, preferably with stem cells or cardiomyocytes.
• Familiarity with flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, and basic molecular biology techniques.

Preferred:

• Experience in iPSC culture and differentiation, especially in cardiovascular lineages.
• Exposure to high-throughput screening platforms (Ion Optix, Axion MEA).
• Comfort with large-scale cell processing and cryopreservation techniques.
• Knowledge of automation tools and liquid handling robotics is a plus.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow and adapt protocols accurately.
• Excellent documentation and data management practices.
• Team-oriented with strong communication and collaboration skills.

We are a diverse and inclusive research group, aspiring to produce top science and scientists through attentive and progressive mentoring and interdisciplinary teamwork.

Pay Range: $52,712 - $68,525

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and…