Research Technician: Systems Genetics

Contract Duration-Length of Time (years/months):

3 year

About the team/job

The research group of Lars Steinmetz is seeking an outstanding, ambitious, and independently working research technician. Our group develops and applies genome-wide technologies to elucidate the genetic basis of complex phenotypes, the functions and mechanisms of transcription, and the genetic and molecular systems underlying diseases. The group works in an interdisciplinary manner across diverse projects, integrating experimental and computational biology. 

Your role

The Research Technician’s responsibilities will include:

• Develop CRISPR/Cas9 tools to perturb cell culture models including cardiomyocytes and immune cells, as well as mice.
• Handling of human cell model systems, generation of stable cell lines, transfections, lentiviral transductions, flow cytometry, and microscopy.
• Basic molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning, DNA/RNA preparation and analysis, generation of CRISPR/Cas9 libraries for genetic screens.
• Performing functional genomics screens and using cutting-edge single-cell sequencing technologies to characterize the effects of CRISPR perturbations.
• Testing, developing and evaluation of new experimental protocols, in particular in the field of next generation sequencing (RNA-seq, single-cell sequencing, NGS library preparations).
• The Research Technician will contribute to scientific projects at all stages, ranging from experimental design to manuscript preparation.
• Working together with 1-2 dedicated senior members in the lab, as well as the EMBL Genomics Core Facility.
• Training new group members and visitors in technologies and protocols used in the laboratory. Oversee supplies and equipment in the lab, routine administrative support. 

You have

Applicants should have an appropriate University degree (PhD, BSc or MSc degree) and a minimum of 1 year practical experience. The successful candidate will be familiar with the biological mechanisms underlying gene expression. (S)he will have extensive hands-on experience in human cell culture model systems including handling of cells and CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering. Experience in iPSCs is highly desirable. Additional experience in high throughput technologies and expertise in next generation sequencing and FACS techniques would be a benefit. The appointed candidate will demonstrate a high degree of motivation, be self-driven and capable of working independently, but also enjoy being part of an interdisciplinary team of scientists in a highly collaborative international working atmosphere. We expect the willingness to learn and develop to gain new knowledge and skills, and to contribute to the completion of project goals. We expect the successful candidate to be well organized, with an attention to detail and record-keeping. Excellent communication skills and fluency in written and verbal English are essential. 

Why join us

This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a team at the cutting edge of technology development in a very exciting area at a world leading institute. EMBL, Europe’s flagship laboratory for the life sciences, is an intergovernmental research institute with more than 80 independent research groups across six sites in Europe. We are an inclusive, equal opportunity employer offering attractive conditions and benefits appropriate to an international research organization with a very collegial and family friendly working environment. The remuneration package comprises a competitive salary, a comprehensive pension scheme, medical, educational and other social benefits. The Steinmetz Lab works across two sites at EMBL Heidelberg and Stanford University and is one of the world’s leading labs in technology development for functional genomics, by combining experimental work and bioinformatics.