Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) · 10 hours ago
Research Specialist II - Molecular Genomics
Ashburn, VA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$82K/yr - $133K/yr
5+ years expHoward Hughes Medical Institute’s Janelia Research Campus is a pioneering research center where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. The Molecular Genomics team is seeking a Research Specialist II to contribute to genome-editing workflows and support a variety of molecular biology projects in a dynamic laboratory environment.
BiotechnologyClinical TrialsHealth CareMedicalMedical Device
Responsibilities
Process genome‑edited samples from tissues or cell lines by designing and optimizing project‑specific assays; performing PCR, Sanger sequencing, and amplicon sequencing; analyzing intended and unintended genomic events; and generating clear, interpretive reports
Support routine molecular biology services, including plasmid purification and custom cloning
Provide operational oversight to support and maintain a well‑organized, service‑focused laboratory environment
Contribute to the development and implementation of new services and technologies, such as digital PCR, laboratory automation, and additional nucleic acid purification methods
Maintain rigorous quality control standards and ensure accurate, detailed documentation of all project activities
Collaborate closely with team members, researchers, and shared resources to coordinate experiments, provide updates, and deliver timely results
Stay current with emerging technologies in genome engineering and genomics, and participate in user groups to remain informed about applications and advancements that are valuable to projects
Qualification
Required
Master of Science in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience
Minimum 3 years of experience working with genome engineering technologies
Minimum 5 years of experience working in a shared resource/core facility setting
Strong technical expertise in molecular biology, including PCR, cloning, and sequencing workflows
Experience with genome‑editing technologies, mutation‑detection assays, and editing analysis
An operational and high-throughput mindset and willingness to support a dynamic, evolving laboratory environment
Ability to handle multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain accuracy under time constraints
Excellent communication skills and a commitment to providing high-quality service to researchers
Benefits
Comprehensive health and welfare benefits
A supportive team environment that promotes collaboration and inclusion
The opportunity to engage with world-class researchers and contribute to impactful science
Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops
Professional memberships in genomics and core facility organizations
Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, a free gym, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and a convenient shuttle bus service
Company
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
Founded in 1953, HHMI invests in scientists at all career stages who make discoveries that advance human health and our fundamental understanding of biology.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
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Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (135)
2024 (133)
2023 (133)
2022 (160)
2021 (133)
2020 (127)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1MKey Investors
Salt Lake Community College
2017-08-31Grant· $1M
Leadership Team
Boyana Konforti
Director of Scientific Strategy & Development
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