Research Assistant I Lab

18-Aug-2022

Harvard Medical School

59466BR

Position Description

Our laboratory at Harvard Medical School is starting a new project whose mission is to pioneer the next generation of gene therapy vectors that target different cell types in the nervous system. Specifically, in collaboration with academic and industry partners, we are designing candidate adeno-associated viral vectors to improve their specificity and enable their use in the treatment of congenital diseases of the central nervous system. This position offers a unique opportunity to play a critical role in developing promising new viral vectors with therapeutic potential while working within an academic setting and learning cutting-edge technologies such as single-cell RNA-seq and ATAC-seq. We are looking for a research assistant to join our team. The position will involve extensive molecular biology, computational analysis, as well as mouse work. Our lab has an exceptional track record of training young scientists. This position is ideal for highly organized, motivated, and hard-working individuals seeking to launch their career as future scientists in academia or industry.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The successful candidate will join our team to design and execute experimental research to contribute to our goal of developing novel precision gene therapies
• Use a range of methods to conduct research, including qPCR, RT-qPCR, molecular cloning, bulk and single-cell RNA-seq library preparation and quality control, immunofluorescence, and RNA in situ hybridization
• Develop and maintain bioinformatic pipelines for analysis of next-generation sequencing data
• Prepare, order, and maintain stocks of necessary reagents, solutions, and supplies
• Maintain and transfect cell lines used in cell-based assays
• Maintain and genotype mouse models, perform perfusion, tissue dissection, tissue sectioning, and in situ fluorescent profiling assays
• Participate in regular meetings with team members to discuss research progress and strategy
• Communicate research findings through verbal and written reports
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of research in an electronic lab notebook

Basic Qualifications

1+ year of related research experience. A Bachelor's Degree may count towards experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Experience with molecular biology and bioinformatics preferred.
• Preference will be given to candidates that can commit for two years.
• Prior research experience is desirable, though not essential.
• At least one year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).
• Demonstrated abilities in basic laboratory techniques helpful, but not required.
• Experience with applicable computational methods, such as those utilizing R and Python, is preferred.
• Appropriate communications skills required.
• May be required to lift, move and transport related laboratory equipment.
• May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.
• While prior laboratory experience is helpful, most important is a candidate with curiosity, work ethic, organization, the ability to learn new techniques, and an excellent track record in college.
• We expect to teach the biochemical, molecular biology, and neuroscience approaches that will be used.
• This is an ideal position for a recent college graduate interested in preparing for graduate or medical school.
• Members from groups underrepresented in STEM are especially encouraged to apply.

Additional Information

This is a 12-month term appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent on funding.

Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre-placement medical evaluation.

The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and remain up to date with COVID-19 vaccine boosters, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Requirements . Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/ . 

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

Harvard University offers an outstanding benefits package including:

• Time Off: 3 - 4 weeks paid vacation, paid holiday break, 12 paid sick days, 12.5 paid holidays, and 3 paid personal days per year.
• Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical plans, dental & vision plans, all coverage begins as of your start date.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, incredibly affordable classes directly at the Harvard Extension School, and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.
• Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
• Wellness options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, massages, nutrition, meditation, and complementary health services.
• Harvard access to athletic facilities, libraries, campus events, and many discounts throughout metro Boston.

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Location

USA - MA - Boston

Job Code

403108 Research Assistant I Lab

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Criminal, Identity

Schedule

​35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals. Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Value

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.