Immunology Research Technician in Exploring Immune Cell Development
Job Description
The Sun Lab is seeking a Research Technician to explore the mechanisms by immune cell development and function are regulated.
My lab is focused on a specific family of proteins called E proteins, which are decision makers that control genetic information and decide what kinds of cells are made. We want to understand how these lineage decisions are made and what the implications of these decisions are in human health.
We know that E proteins are important for making B cells and T cells, which are two types of immune cells, but how this process works is poorly understood. We are investigating how this complex process works by studying mice who do not have E proteins. We specifically looked at the thymus, a small organ that sits at the top of the chest and exists specifically to train the immune system to recognize what is normal and what is not.
When E proteins were removed from the thymus, we discovered the organ made an entirely different kind of cells in their place: innate lymphoid cells. Innate lymphoid cells trigger an immediate immune response and respond to tissue damage or infections very quickly but are less sophisticated in immunity than B or T cells.
We were the first to show the thymus can make these cells, and we are investigating the biological significance to understand why the thymus has this function and how it contributes to health in mice and, ultimately, in humans. This has important potential for drug development because innate lymphoid cells, while they do some good things, have been implicated in a number of diseases, including asthma, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis.
Responsibilities
Major duties include participating in different animal experiments, tissue dissection, and flow cytometry. Management of mouse colonies is also a responsibility.
Job Requirements
BA/BS degree typically in one of the biological sciences or chemistry. Should be familiar with lab techniques.
Must have excellent organizational skills and the ability to follow detailed experimental protocols. Must be able to work well as part of a team and willing to work with mice. Familiarity with Microsoft Word, and Excel.
