Research Technologist Cousin Lab

Lab Overview:
The Lab of Dr. Margot Cousin at Mayo Clinic is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Research Technologist to join our dynamic research team. Our lab focuses on developing novel gene-targeted therapies for rare genetic diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other rare genetic conditions. We employ cutting-edge cell-based models to understand the mechanisms of these diseases and explore innovative therapeutic approaches including antisense oligonucleotides and other gene-targeted approaches 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 individuals with rare and genetic disorders match patients with personalized therapies and advance these therapies in the lab. Through the N-of-1 Therapeutics Program we leverage computational tools to interpret genetic data and develop targeted treatments.

Our lab is committed to fostering a collaborative team-oriented environment that supports professional growth. Research technologists receive hands-on training and mentorship from senior lab staff with opportunities to expand technical skills strengthen experimental troubleshooting capabilities and gain exposure to translational research workflows and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Position Overview:
The Research Technologist will support ongoing research projects by performing laboratory experiments maintaining accurate documentation and contributing to data collection analysis manuscript preparation and organization. This position works closely with lab members and collaborating teams and performs duties with direction from the Principal Investigator and more senior laboratory staff.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Support & Experiment Execution:

• Perform experiments following established protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Support cell/tissue culture and routine molecular biology workflows (e.g. DNA/RNA isolation PCR gel electrophoresis basic cloning support Western blots).
• Prepare reagents and buffers maintain lab stocks and support day-to-day laboratory operations to keep research activities running smoothly.

Data Collection Documentation & Quality:

• Maintain clear timely records of experimental procedures and results in lab notebooks and/or electronic systems.
• Organize summarize and prepare datasets and figures for lab meetings project updates presentations and manuscripts.
• Communicate unexpected findings promptly and support troubleshooting efforts by repeating experiments checking controls and validating reagents when needed.

Collaboration & Teamwork:

• Coordinate work with lab members to meet project timelines and support shared lab goals.
• Participate in lab meetings and communicate progress to supervisors and project leads.
• Assist with onboarding/training of students or temporary staff on basic lab practices

Computational & Translational Project Support (as appropriate for experience):

• Assist with data organization tracking and analyses (e.g. spreadsheets simple summaries figure preparation).
• Support collaborative projects involving genetic data interpretation workflows and help organize project materials and documentation.
• Learn new tools and workflows as needed with training and support.

Requires bachelors degree in biology chemistry other relevant science or an associates degree with 6 years of relevant laboratory experience. Must exhibit a solid understanding of lab techniques equipment and safety. Must have the ability to organize and carry out laboratory techniques independently and in a team setting. Experience with basic data analysis is required. This position requires demonstrated writing skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelors degree in molecular biology Biology Chemistry Neuroscience or a related scientific field preferred . (Masters degree is a plus.)
• Experience: 13 years of research experience in a laboratory setting (academic clinical or industry). Internship/research assistant experience may be considered.
• Technical Skills:
  • Hands-on experience with some combination of: PCR DNA/RNA isolation basic cloning workflows Western blotting or cell culture.
  • Ability to follow detailed protocols maintain accurate documentation and manage assigned tasks reliably.
  • Familiarity with basic data tools (Excel/Google Sheets); experience with PRISM or similar software is a plus but not required.
• Personal Attributes:
  • Strong attention to detail and good organizational habits.
  • Ability to manage multiple assigned tasks and meet deadlines in a team-based environment.
  • Willingness to learn new methods ask questions and seek guidance when needed.
  • Professional communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with iPSC or any stem cell culture disease modeling or assay development (helpful but not required).
• Exposure to genetics/genomics concepts or an interest in rare disease research and translational science.
• Prior experience working in a collaborative or clinically adjacent research environment.