Senior Research Technologist - Gene-Targeted Therapy for Rare Genetic Diseases

Independently sets up and performs experiments and procedures in support of lab goals and grant commitments (e.g. assays cell/tissue culture animal studies etc.. Contributes to the planning design and modification of studies and experiments in the research lab setting. Monitors results reports unusual outcomes and suggests modifications. Collects enters summarizes and analyzes data. May oversee and assist with the training of residents fellows and temporary lab personnel in lab techniques. Works with minimal supervision and performs assignments independently as discussed and approved by Principal Investigator.

Additional Information:

Location: Department of Molecular Medicine Mayo Clinic in collaboration with the Department of Neurology and the Center for Individualized Medicine

Lab Overview:
The Lab of Dr. Margot Cousin at Mayo Clinic is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Technologist to join our dynamic research team. Our lab focuses on developing novel genetargeted therapies for rare genetic diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). We employ cuttingedge cellbased models to understand the mechanisms of these diseases and explore innovative therapeutic approaches including antisense oligonucleotides and drug repurposing with the goal of clinical translation.

In collaboration with clinicians and researchers in the Department of Neurology and the Center for Individualized Medicine the lab aims to identify genetic forms of ALS and other rare disorders match patients with personalized therapies and advance these therapies in the lab. Through the Nof1 Therapeutics Program we leverage computational tools to interpret genetic data and develop targeted treatments.

Position Overview:
The Senior Research Technologist will play a key role in driving research efforts from experimental design to data analysis in support of the labs goals and grant commitments. This role will involve both wetlab and computational work as well as direct involvement in collaborative projects with interdisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Experimental Design & : Independently design and conduct experiments including cell/tissue culture assays and molecular biology techniques (e.g. DNA/RNA isolation PCR cloning).
• Data Analysis: Collect summarize and analyze experimental data. Identify trends troubleshoot unexpected results and propose modifications to improve study outcomes.
• Collaboration & Communication: Work closely with the Principal Investigator senior lab personnel and collaborating investigators. Assist in training residents fellows and temporary lab staff on lab techniques.
• Computational Support: Collaborate with bioinformatics teams to interpret genetic data contribute to variant prioritization and support the development of therapeutic strategies. Utilize computational tools for data management and contribute to research publications.

Requires bachelors degree in biology chemistry or other relevant science with 4 years of research laboratory experience. Masters degree in biology chemistry or other relevant science preferred.

Additional Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelors degree in Biology Chemistry or related scientific field required. A Masters degree is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 4 years of research experience in a laboratory setting. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in molecular biology functional analysis of proteins tissue culture disease modeling (iPSC) and recombinant DNA techniques.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR Western blotting RNAseq) tissue culture iPSC culture and assay development. Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and data analysis software (e.g. PRISM sequence analysis statistical software).
• Personal Attributes: Strong organizational skills ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fastpaced highthroughput environment. Attention to detail and ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with genetic variant interpretation and the development of therapeutic strategies for rare genetic diseases.
• Previous involvement in clinical or translational research is highly desirable.