About the lab and research area:

The Liu lab is interested in understanding the cellular and circuitry mechanisms that underlie the communication between the respiratory system and the nervous system. We use mouse as the model organism and combine molecular, genetics, imaging, and whole-animal physiology approaches. To learn more about the lab, please visit

The Liu lab is a member of the 4D Cellular Physiology (4DCP) research area at Janelia. We expect to work closely with other groups in the area to develop innovative strategies and tackle the general principles of how cell and tissue organization across systems and how body-brain communication maintains organismal function. To learn more about 4DCP, please visit

About the role:

In this role, you will be supporting the lab on multiple projects under the core interest of lung-brain interaction by carrying out experiments and data analysis. You will work directly under the supervision of the lab head and collaborate with other lab members and shared resource teams at Janelia. You will have the opportunities to learn state-of-the-art molecular, imaging, and neurophysiology techniques, and have the freedom to implement your own ideas to help advance the projects. The ideal candidate will be well-organized, flexible, and motivated in learning new knowledge/techniques and overcoming challenges.

What we provide:

• One on one mentoring relationship with the lab head

• State of the art research facility and highly collaborative working environment

• Excellent training opportunities with experts in cell biology, neuroscience, genetics, imaging, and computer science.

• Opportunities to attend various scientific workshops and conferences held at Janelia and travel support to conferences outside Janelia.

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

• Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, a free gym, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service.

What you'll do:

• Test and implement in situ and immunostaining methods on characterizing gene expression in tissues.

• Perform animal surgeries to combine viral and genetic approaches for targeting cell populations

• Manage physiological measurement instruments and perform the experiments

• Support lab members by providing experimental training and consulting.

• Work with lab head on preparing manuscript for publication.

• Review research activities to determine where new information, methods, or teamwork could positively impact projects and improve efficiency of processes.

What you bring:

• Bachelor of Science degree in biology related fields with minimum four years of related research experience (or an equivalent combination of education and working experience).

• Basic molecular and cellular biology skills, such as molecular cloning, immunostaining, microscopy, are required.

• Experience with rodent surgery is highly preferred.

• Experience with multiplex in situ or spatial transcriptomics is preferred.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong initiative, self-motivation, and capacity for creative problem solving.

• Strong organizational skills and time management skills.

• Strong attention to details and recordkeeping skills.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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.