Research Assistant I, Boston, Massachusetts

Harvard University


Position Title: Research Assistant I

Req ID: 65531BR

School or Unit: Harvard Medical School

Description: Position Description

The Greenberg lab at Harvard Medical School examines how neuronal activity shapes the maturation and plasticity of the nervous system. The brain and other organs communicate by secreting thousands of proteins that travel throughout the body and activate receptors on target cells, forming a biological communication network. While some secreted proteins, such as leptin, have been deeply studied, the majority remain poorly characterized because existing tools are inadequate to study the entire secretome. For this project, we will use newly developed technology to better understand how distal tissues communicate with the brain and to better deliver synthetic proteins for research and therapeutic applications.

We are looking to hire a curious, motivated, highly organized research assistant seeking experience in cutting-edge technology development and eager to make discoveries with molecular and synthetic biology techniques. During this project, you will gain experience in pooled screening techniques including library cloning, CRISPR screening, protein purification, proteomics and sequencing. We will use Python and Bash scripting to analyze and visualize large-scale biological datasets. You will be directly mentored by a postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Josh Tycko, providing exposure and advice for the research career track. You will benefit from the rich environment of postdocs, graduate students, and other researchers in the Greenberg Lab. This position is ideally suited for individuals seeking to launch a career in scientific research.

Basic Qualifications

• College background or equivalent work experience in a related discipline
• 1+ years of experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Experience working with mice or human cell culture models preferred.
• Strong preference will be given to candidates that can commit for two years.
• Prior research experience and a background in quantitative course work is desirable.
• At least one year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).
• Demonstrated abilities in laboratory techniques helpful, especially cloning, PCR, library preparation, next generation sequencing, flow cytometry, imaging, tissue culture, and protein purification, although we expect to teach all of these while executing projects.
• Exposure to applicable computer technologies, including specific software applications, may be required.
• 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, motivation to make discoveries, clear organization and notetaking, the ability to learn new techniques, and an excellent track record in college. We expect to teach the genomics, molecular biology, and neuroscience approaches that will be used. This is an ideal position for a recent college graduate interested in preparing for graduate school; we have a strong track record in preparing research assistants to matriculate in competitive PhD programs and support them during the application process. 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 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.

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

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

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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.

LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only)

#LI-KM2

Department Office Location: USA - MA - Boston

Job Code: 403108 Research Assistant I Lab

Job Function: Research

Work Format: On-Site

Sub Unit: ------------

Salary Grade: 052

Department: Neurobiology


Union: 55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Time Status: Full-time

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 Values

https://hms.harvard.edu/about-hms/campus-culture/mission-community-values-diversity-statement

EOE 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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