Job Description

Associate Research Scientist | Cell and Molecular Biology

Baker Lab

Bar Harbor, ME

The Baker lab at The Jackson Laboratory is seeking an independent, highly motivated PhD-level scientist to lead a collaborative research program investigating the impact of genetic variation on differentiation propensity using cellular systems genetics. The Baker lab studies how genetic variation impacts phenotypic variation through changes in the epigenome using a combination of approaches including in vitro cellular models, (epi)genomics assays, and genome editing. The Baker lab is looking for applicants who come from an experimental background looking to apply functional genomic approaches towards understanding systems-level regulation. For more information, please visit: Baker lab website. Twitter: @ChrisBakerLab

Motivation and curiosity are the two most critical skills that we expect you to bring to our science. The ability to plan, execute and analyze an independent research project is essential. Preference will be given to self-motivated individuals. The ideal candidate should have a strong training background in cell and molecular biology, genetics, wet lab and/or bioinformatic experience, and prior expertise using in vitro models. Through leading this program, this talented individual would have access to a cross-disciplinary program at the intersections of stem cell biology, systems genetics, and single-cell genomics.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Following training, maintain and differentiate panels of mouse embryonic stem cells towards project goals; obtain data with minimal guidance; supervise junior staff to do the same
• Organize and lead collaborative group projects internally and externally
• Develop and optimize functional genomic protocols
• Execute and analyze independent research project(s) using efficient, flexible, and self-motivated work ethic
• Actively read scientific literature and develop new ideas for project direction(s)
• Contribute to ongoing projects within the lab by being an active team player
• Mentor and supervise incoming trainees and lab members as needed
• Write manuscripts, and in the long-term, will be encouraged to obtain independent funding through grant writing
• Prepare and give presentations on project(s) at research conferences and symposiums

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, or related field of study
• 3+ years of post-doctoral training
• Candidates should have a publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Ability to integrate and apply feedback in a professional manner
• Exceptional organization and project management skills
• Demonstrated resourcefulness in finding appropriate solutions to problems and initiative in presenting alternatives and implementing solutions
• Experience using common wet lab techniques (PCR, cloning, gel-electrophoresis) and methods in aseptic cell culture.
• Experience with R, Python or similar statistical package is helpful, as well as experience with genetic and genomic data analyses and bioinformatics
• Excellent writing and communication skills, able to work independently and effectively with other members in a productive team

**Please submit your current CV and 1-page (maximum) statement of Research Interests and Career Goals at time of application. **

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

About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with more than 2,400 employees. Headquartered in Bar Harbor, Maine, it has a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center in Augusta, Maine, a genomic medicine institute in Farmington, Connecticut, and facilities in Ellsworth, Maine, Sacramento, California, and Shanghai, China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

JAX employees work in a collaborative, value-driven, and team-based environment where the focus is on advancing science and improving patients’ lives. Researchers apply genetics to increase the understanding of human disease and advance treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging, and heart disease. JAX was voted among the top 15 “Best Places to Work in Academia” in the United States in a poll conducted by The Scientist magazine!

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.