Laboratory Technician

17-May-2023

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

61348BR

Job Summary

The Macklis Lab is directed toward (1) understanding molecular controls and mechanisms over neuron sub-type development, diversity, axon guidance-circuit formation, and degeneration in the cerebral cortex, and (2) applying developmental controls toward brain and spinal cord regeneration and directed differentiation for in vitro therapeutic and mechanistic screening.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and senior lab personnel, the laboratory technician will focus on one or more of the following areas:

• molecular biology, including cloning and CRISPR gene editing;
• mouse genetics, husbandry, behavior, neuroanatomy, and surgery;
• cell culture, including directed differentiation of stem cells into neurons and brain organoids;
• microscopy, tissue processing, CLARITY, and image analysis.

Position Description

Typical Duties Include:

• Perform standard tests and procedures, using developed approaches;
• Under specific direction from senior lab personnel, maintain and genotype mouse lines and/or mammalian cell cultures;
• Record experimental results and report data to supervisor and team.;
• Participate in weekly lab meetings and journal clubs;
•  Assist other staff and students in basic laboratory techniques including standard molecular biology techniques, cell culture techniques, microscopy, and/or animal care;
• Perform related lab duties such as maintaining and cleaning equipment, preparing common stock solutions, monitoring supplies and communicate supply needs to lab manager;
• Assist with the animal colony, including health and environmental conditions monitoring, breeding and recording of clinical observations.

Basic Qualifications

Experience with basic biological laboratory techniques is required

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• BA/BS in biological sciences is preferred, as is directly related lab experience.
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
• High level of initiative and motivation; ability to work independently and with a team.
• Attention to detail, especially in regard to executing experimental protocols.
• Ability to think creatively to solve problems.
• Interest in one or more of the following is preferred: nervous system development, gene editing technology, animal handling, surgical techniques, stem cell culture, and microscopy techniques.

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.

May be required to work with and handle lab-based animals
May be required to lift, move and transport related laboratory equipment.
May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.

Additional Information

This is a one year term position with possibility of renewal based on continued funding availability.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website 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

Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 9-5
Some holiday and weekend work may be required.

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.