Laboratory Assistant II

Updated: 2 months ago

15-Feb-2024

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

65064BR


Job Summary

The Srivastava Lab at Harvard University studies the mechanisms of regeneration and development using a new model marine invertebrate species. We take an integrative approach that combines state of the art techniques including single-cell transcription profiling, lineage tracing, RNAi, and transgenesis to ask questions about stem cells and regeneration in an evolutionary framework. The ultimate goal of our research is to uncover factors that enable pluripotency in stem cells and allow animals to regenerate their entire bodies.


Position Description

We are seeking a Laboratory Assistant II to support the work of students and postdocs in the lab. The person in this position is closely mentored by a senior scientist in the lab, reports to the Principal Investigator, and is responsible for:

  • Overseeing the maintenance of a healthy population of the animals the lab studies, including working with a salt water system
  • Ordering supplies and maintaining equipment, including soliciting quotes from vendors under the direction of administrative personnel
  • Occasionally instructing others in basic laboratory techniques
  • In addition to these primary roles, the Laboratory Assistant II, under direction, may also have an opportunity to learn and apply molecular and cell biology methods to support projects within the lab, including collecting and analyzing data. And, as a member of a project team, the Laboratory Assistant II may assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols.


    Basic Qualifications

    College background in biology and at least one year of experience working in a laboratory setting are required.


    Additional Qualifications and Skills

    BA/BS degree in biology or related field preferred. Must be familiar with PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular cloning. The ideal candidate understands and follows good laboratory practices including record keeping. 

    Other Skills Sought: Well-organized, self-motivated, detail-oriented, and excellent interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate should possess willingness and interest in learning new skills and technologies.


    Working Conditions

    The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.


    Additional Information

    In order to be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted.

    This is a one-year term position with the possibility of extension. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

    ***All formal written offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.


    Work Format Details

    This position is based on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 


    About Us

    OEB is a diverse and vibrant department with a broad range of research and teaching interests, ranging from the evolution and control of gene expression patterns within individuals and populations to the dynamics of ecosystems. Field and laboratory studies are key to understanding the evolution of organisms, how biodiversity is generated and maintained, how organisms work, and how organisms interact with their environment. OEB has close working associations with its allied institutions: the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) and the Harvard University Herbaria (HUH), as well as the Arnold Arboretum and the Harvard Forest. These institutions and their collections offer an unparalleled, rich set of resources for OEB students, faculty, visitors and staff. www.oeb.harvard.edu


    Benefits

    We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

    • Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
    • Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
    • Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
    • Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
    • Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
    • Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
    • Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
    • Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
    • Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

    Department Office Location

    USA - MA - Cambridge


    Job Code

    403096 Laboratory Technician


    Department

    Organismic and Evolutionary Biology (OEB)


    Union

    55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers


    Pre-Employment Screening

    Identity


    Schedule

    Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM


    Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

    Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.


    EEO Statement

    We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.



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