Classification:
Exempt
Job Family:
Technicians
Reports to:
AI Whitehead Fellow
Job Description Summary:
OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY
Collaborate on short- and long-term research projects to support the scientific objectives of the laboratory. Perform spatial transcriptomics experiments and associated molecular biology procedures, with a focus on MERFISH and related technologies. Support the development, optimization, and execution of imaging-based transcriptomics workflows and associated data preprocessing pipelines, ensuring high-quality experimental data generation that supports computational modeling and biological discovery. Depending on experience level, the technician may contribute to protocol development, computational workflows, and experimental design.
RESEARCH BACKGROUND AND GOALS
The Sun Lab seeks a highly motivated Spatial Omics Technician interested in combining experimental biology with computational analysis. Our research focuses on understanding how cells communicate and organize within tissues using large-scale spatial transcriptomics and single-cell genomics technologies.
The successful candidate will contribute to establishing and scaling MERFISH-based experiments, including probe design, tissue processing, imaging workflows, and data preprocessing. This position provides opportunities for hands-on training with cutting-edge spatial transcriptomics technologies for early career candidates, while offering experienced candidates the opportunity to independently optimize workflows and contribute to technology development in close collaboration with computational researchers developing AI models to interpret these datasets.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES
- Perform spatial transcriptomics experiments, including MERFISH sample preparation, hybridization, and imaging workflows
- Prepare tissue samples (e.g., cryosectioning, fixation, staining) for spatial transcriptomics experiments
- Assist with or perform probe design and optimization for MERFISH and related spatial technologies
- Assist with, run, and maintain spatial transcriptomics preprocessing pipelines, including decoding, segmentation, and quality control
- Organize and manage spatial imaging datasets and associated metadata
- Develop, implement or modify or implement scripts for probe design, data preprocessing, and quality assessment, as appropriate based on experience
- Work closely with computational team members to ensure data compatibility with downstream analysis pipelines
- Maintain detailed experimental documentation and protocols
- Present experimental progress and results to lab members and collaborators
- Contribute to the development and optimization of experimental workflows, consistent with experience and level of responsibility
QUALIFICATIONS
- BSc or MSc (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, Genomics, Bioinformatics, or a related field
- Experience with molecular biology techniques such as RNA handling, hybridization assays, or microscopy
- Experience with spatial transcriptomics technologies (e.g., MERFISH, Xenium, Slide-seq, seqFISH, or related platforms) is preferred for more experienced candidates but not required for entry-level
- For Technical Assistant II level candidates: Demonstrated experience independently performing complex molecular biology workflows, troubleshooting experiments, optimizing protocols, and/or working with computational or image analysis pipelines is preferred
- Basic programming or scripting experience (e.g., Python, R, or MATLAB) is preferred
- Experience with image analysis or bioinformatics tools is a plus
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment
- Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
The title (Technician I or Technician II) will be determined based on the candidate's education, prior experience, technical expertise, and demonstrated independence.
Whitehead provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the Institute reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, and internal peer equity. This pay range represents base pay only and does not include any other benefits or compensation.
- Pay Range Minimum: $47,500
- Pay Range Maximum: $55,000
Whitehead Institute is an E-Verify employer
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