Laboratory Research Technician I

A full-time Research Tech I position is available in Dr. Liyun Zhang’s laboratory in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh. The lab focuses on studying the mechanisms of retinal degeneration and regeneration, with the ultimate goal of developing novel therapies for retinal degenerative diseases. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, the lab develops zebrafish retinal disease models to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms of photoreceptor degeneration and perform in vivo phenotypic drug screening to identify potential therapeutic compounds.

Qualification of candidate:

1) A bachelor’s degree in biology, Molecular Biology or related scientific field is required.2) Previous research experience is preferred but not mandatory, especially with the following techniques and skills:

a. Zebrafish husbandry (e.g. general care, breeding, genotyping, phenotyping, drug treatments).

b. High resolution imaging (e.g. fluorescence and confocal microscopy).

c. Histological and immunological tissue processing and sectioning.

d. Standard molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, cloning, RNA/DNA extraction)

3) Strong attention to details and excellent organizational skills. 

4) Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a diverse research team.

5) Enthusiasm for science and a proactive mindset to learn new techniques and contribute to innovative research.