Summary

Dr. Blair Benham-Pyle is seeking a research technician to assist in execution of research projects related to cell-cell communication in aging. The Benham-Pyle laboratory at Baylor College of Medicine is housed in the Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (STaR) Center and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. We leverages the remarkable regenerative capacity of planarian flatworms (Schmidtea mediterranea and procotyla fluviatilis) to study stem cells, aging, regeneration, and cancer prevention. We commonly use high throughput RNAi screens, in situ hybridization, and advanced fluorescent microscopy to uncover novel mechanisms regulating cell-cell communication during these processes. 

The right person will help grow and study comparative aging in both long-lived and short-lived planarian flatworms. Attention to detail is a must and skills in maintenance of aquatic organisms or bright field and confocal microscopy are preferred. The selected candidate will also help maintain the culture of our research group, so strong organizational, interpersonal, and communications skills, plus an enthusiasm for learning and developmental biology are essential. Applicants with experience in molecular biology and/or whole-mount in situ hybridization are particularly encouraged to apply. We are also most enthusiastic about applicants that would like to be in the lab for at least 2 years, to ensure time for both training and substantive contributions to publication

Job Duties

• Assist in maintenance, tracking, and observation of aging populations of planarian flatworms.
• Execute planarian RNAi screens, build phenotype database, and score phenotypes.
• Perform whole-mount in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence studies.
• Assist in management of laboratory consumables, including maintaining accurate inventory lists of lab supplies and ordering new supplies when needed.
• Participate in group meetings to discuss scientific findings and lab business.
• Perform other job related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a Basic Science or related field. Four years of related experience may substitute for degree requirement.
• No experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with organismal biology
• Experience with aquatics animal husbandry
• Experience with immunohistochemistry
• Experience with whole-mount fluorescent in situ hybridization
• Experience with histology or tissue sectioning