Senior Research Technician - Allen Discovery Center

The Allen Discovery Center is dedicated to the advancement of basic biology and biomedicine, and to using an integrated approach to control biological structure and function. Through a combination of molecular genetics, biophysics, and computational approaches, researchers at the Center work toward a multi-level control of patterning. Novel technology is being developed to modulate the bioelectric communication that enables cells to coordinate their activities toward specific anatomical and functional outcomes. This new type of epigenetic control has significant implications for developmental biology, evolution, unconventional computation, and synthetic bioengineering. Applications in progress include the repair of birth defects, regenerative medicine, cancer reprogramming, and synthetic biology.

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Research Technician to support advanced spatial omics studies utilizing automated multiplex immunohistochemistry (IHC) and automated multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The Senior Research Technician will handle:

• Tissue preparation
• Sample sectioning
• Performing multiplex staining protocols and imaging
• Initial data analysis and troubleshooting

The successful candidate will have extensive hands-on experience in multiplex IHC and FISH, exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, and meticulous attention to detail, particularly regarding sample documentation and data management. Additional duties will occasionally involve assisting with rodent surgeries and post-operative care, for which training will be provided.

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired by a Bachelor's degree in biology, biomedical sciences, or a closely related discipline
• Minimum of 2 years of direct, hands-on laboratory experience performing and troubleshooting immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH)
• Excellent manual dexterity and coordination for handling delicate tissue samples
• Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot experimental protocols in a meticulous and data-intensive research environment
• Proven strong organizational skills with rigorous attention to detail, ensuring precise documentation and systematic management of experimental records. Pedantic record-keeping habits and commitment to reproducibility are essential
• Willingness and ability to work with rodents, including assisting with animal surgeries and providing post-operative care (training will be provided)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience specifically with multiplexed or automated IHC and FISH methodologies is highly desirable
• Prior familiarity with spatial omics concepts, technologies, and general imaging workflows (knowledge of platforms such as MACSima or MERSCOPE is beneficial but not required)
• Experience managing and structuring large-scale biological datasets, particularly spatial imaging data, including backup protocols and version control
• Experience assisting or managing downstream data analysis workflows, including preparation of summary spreadsheets and coordination with data scientists
• Prior involvement with rodent surgical procedures (e.g., soft tissue surgery, wound healing models) or general rodent husbandry

Special Work Schedule Requirements:

This position requires the ability to be organized in a fast-paced environment and demands detailed work on multiple concurrent tasks requiring concentrated attention. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be required to work with toxic or caustic chemicals. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.