Research Technician II- Exposito-Alonso Lab

We are looking for a Research Technician II to join Dr. Moises Exposito-Alonso at our University of California at Berkeley location. Moises Exposito-Alonso investigates the genetic processes driving plant species adaptation in response to new environments caused by climate change. Centered on the model plant species Arabidopsis thaliana, Exposito Alonso's team integrates long-term evolution through experiments in field sites worldwide with genomics to understand the speed and predictability of rapid evolution. By employing genetics and synthetic biology approaches based on gene editing, they explore the gene pathways underlying plant climate adaptation. To learn more information about the lab visit

In this role, you will work collaboratively with Dr. Moises Exposito Alonso to support research projects in plant evolutionary ecology, genetics and synthetic biology. We are looking for someone who is highly independent and can lead work on next generation sequencing of large-scale genomic projects (RNA/DNA extractions, library preparations, and sequencing). In addition, the position will have abundant opportunities to contribute to diverse projects, including running the plant facilities and wet laboratory tasks such as orders, organize projects, plant care in greenhouse and outdoor field conditions, conduct gene cloning, phenotyping, and plant transformation.Manage lab safety programs to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations. Use software applications to assemble, manipulate, format and/or perform statistical analyses of complex data in collaboration with computational biologists in the lab.

• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• A deeper understanding of evolutionary and molecular biology.

• Hands on training on molecular biology, genetics and genomics techniques and computational analyses.

• One-on-one mentorship.

• A vibrant and inclusive cultural environment.

• Perform skilled technical procedures such as DNA extractions, gene cloning, NGS library prep, microscopy.

• Operate complex scientific instrumentation. Assist with laboratory equipment maintenance.

• Conduct literature reviews to assist in determining the most suitable methods to be used in research. Collaborate with other lab members on experimental design, creation of appropriate methods and protocols, and development of new laboratory techniques.

• Analyze data, formulate conclusions, and create appropriate statistical presentations, including graphs and charts, and prepare and present written or oral progress reports regarding studies.

• Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data. May use specialized software applications to assemble, manipulate, format and/or perform statistical analyses of data.

• Actively contribute to laboratory meetings and planning sessions.

• May participate in performing inventories of materials and ordering supplies.

• Maintain plants and/or bacterial and tissue cultures for experimental purposes.

• May demonstrate and explain various laboratory techniques to laboratory personnel, students, and others.

• Bachelor of Science degree in an appropriate field; or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience.

• Two years of related research experience as research assistant or Masters of Science training.

• Knowledge of laboratory protocols and techniques.

• Ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a diverse population.

• Ability to take initiative, prioritize tasks, work independently, use good judgment, and monitor completion of assigned duties.

• Ability to operate complex scientific equipment.

• Fully understands role in the work unit and in related units; understands how the job supports achievement of the organization's goals.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our site to learn more.

Compensation Range

Pay Type:

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.