Research Technician I

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center is an independent, nonprofit organization providing adult cancer treatment and groundbreaking research focused on cancer and infectious diseases. Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington.

With a track record of global leadership in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines, Fred Hutch has earned a reputation as one of the world's leading cancer, infectious disease and biomedical research centers. Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy and related services, and network affiliations with hospitals in five states. Together, our fully integrated research and clinical care teams seek to discover new cures to the world's deadliest diseases and make life beyond cancer a reality.

At Fred Hutch we value collaboration, compassion, determination, excellence, innovation, integrity and respect. Our mission is directly tied to the humanity, dignity and inherent value of each employee, patient, community member and supporter. Our commitment to learning across our differences and similarities make us stronger. We seek employees who bring different and innovative ways of seeing the world and solving problems.

The Rajan Laboratory in the Basic Sciences Division at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center uses multidisciplinary approaches to study inter-organ communication using Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. Our research focuses on understanding how adipose tissue communicates nutrient status to the brain, and how chronic nutrient surplus disrupts this communication, contributing to metabolic disease.

By examining these questions in a genetically tractable model organism, the lab aims to generate fundamental insights into metabolic regulation that can inform broader approaches to obesity and related disorders.

Additional information about the Rajan Lab can be found at: http://akhilalab.org

Under the direct supervision of senior laboratory members, the Research Technician I will support and contribute to ongoing research projects using established experimental protocols. Primary responsibilities include:

Performing laboratory experiments in fruit fly genetics, ELISA-based assays, biochemistry (including Western blotting and immunoprecipitation), and molecular biology (cloning, PCR).
• Assisting with data collection, organization, and basic analysis under guidance.
• Participating in laboratory meetings, journal clubs, and group discussions.
• Maintaining accurate laboratory records and following established SOPs.
• Supporting general laboratory operations, including ordering supplies, maintaining Drosophila stocks, preparing fly food, and routine lab maintenance.
• Performing additional duties as needed to support laboratory research activities.

This role is expected to involve increasing independence over time while remaining under close scientific supervision, consistent with a Research Technician I appointment.

Training and Career Development

This position is ideal for a recent graduate seeking intensive, hands-on research experience prior to pursuing graduate school, medical school, or an MD/PhD program. The Research Technician I will receive structured mentoring, exposure to experimental design, and guidance on professional development, including preparation for competitive graduate or physician-scientist training programs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field or equivalent combination of education and experience
  
• Demonstrated scientific knowledge in the area of study
  
• Demonstrated basic laboratory skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated scientific curiosity and motivation to learn experimental techniques.
• Prior bench research experience (e.g., as a laboratory aide, undergraduate researcher, or equivalent).
• Strong attention to detail and reliability in executing experimental protocols.
• Ability to follow instructions, accept feedback, and work productively under supervision.
• Good organizational skills and time management.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a research team.

The hourly pay range for this position is from $23.33 to $33.21 and pay offered will be based on experience and qualifications. This position may be eligible for relocation assistance.

This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship at this time.

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center offers employees a comprehensive benefits package designed to enhance health, well-being, and financial security. Benefits include medical/vision, dental, flexible spending accounts, life, disability, retirement, family life support, employee assistance program, onsite health clinic, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation (12-22 days per year), paid sick leave (12-25 days per year), paid holidays (13 days per year), and paid parental leave (up to 4 weeks).