Research Assistant I Lab

05-Apr-2024

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

65390BR

Job Summary

Research in the Wagers Lab seeks to define the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate the migration, expansion, and repair potential of blood-forming and muscle-forming stem cells. We focus particularly on how these stem cell activities vary across lifespan and how they can be exploited for regenerative medicine. This work has identified systemic proteins, immune and inflammatory cells, metabolic regulators and intrinsic transcriptional programs that change during aging as crucial for determining stem cell function and modulating tissue repair and homeostasis. These efforts additionally offer exciting evidence of the robustness and clinical potential of gene editing and gene therapy in stem cells in vivo and the utility of stem cell-derived models for dissecting the molecular mechanisms of organ function.

The Wagers lab is currently seeking a highly motivated candidate to assist with ongoing experiments to ascertain the role of specific blood-borne and metabolic factors in protecting muscle mass and regenerative function and identify genetic/epigenetic regulators that drive age-related defects in organ function that can lead to cancer. In particular, the Research Assistant will work together with the PI and other research staff to maintain project-specific transgenic and aging mouse colonies, to perform mouse survival surgeries, tissue collection, flow cytometry, immunostaining and other bioassays, to propagate and differentiate patient-specific human pluripotent stem cells, and to organize data and collate research results. The assistant will also perform a variety of basic and general lab support and clerical tasks, including ordering and stocking of supplies, maintenance of equipment and preparation and storage of shared reagents.

Work will be performed under specific direction of the PI and/or senior lab members, although it is expected that certain research-related and clerical tasks will be performed independently. The assistant will also participate in frequent team meetings involving lab members and external collaborators, and, under the direction of the PI and senior research staff, will participate in preparing and presenting research results and summaries. Strong organizational and communication skills (both written and oral) are essential.

Position Description

More specifically, job responsibilities include:

• Under direction, carry out a variety of routine laboratory protocols that include molecular biology techniques (e.g., molecular cloning, plasmid preps, RNA preps, DNA preps, and PCR analysis), protein analysis (Western blot, ELISA, FACS);
• Maintain cultures of pluripotent stem cells and differentiated cells (both mouse and human);
• Maintain mouse colony; carry out husbandry, genotype mouse strains, perform tail bleeding and injections for experiments;
• Assist with animal experiments that include surgeries and/or tissue harvests;
• Prepare and maintain stocks of reagents, solutions, and supplies;
• Assist with equipment maintenance and ordering of common lab supplies;
• Record experimental results and maintain accurate lab records.
• Present research results at work-in-progress collaboration meetings with internal and external collaborators.

Basic Qualifications

Biological laboratory research experience is required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

B.A. or B.S. in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related discipline is preferred. At least 1 year of laboratory experience that includes handling/screening of small animals (mice) and/or tissue culture of mammalian cells, is strongly preferred. Knowledge of cellular and molecular biology and the ability to apply this knowledge are required, as are strong organizational and communication skills and ability to prioritize responsibilities.

Additional Information

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources

This is a one year term position

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. 

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

403108 Research Assistant I Lab

Department

Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Schedule

35 hours per week

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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