Technical Research Assistant II Schaefer Lab BWH Pathology
Primary Location MA-Boston-BWH Boston Main Campus
Work Locations BWH Boston Main Campus 75 Francis St Boston 02115
Job Technician/Technologist/Scientist
Organization Brigham & Women's Hospital(BWH)
Schedule Full-time
Standard Hours 40
Shift Day Job
Employee Status Regular
Recruiting Department BWH Pathology
Job Posting Aug 7, 2022
Under very general supervision of Principal Investigator, and in accordance with established hospital policies and procedures, conducts experiments to identify new therapeutic strategies in pediatric and adult cancers. This research assistant position is cell culture intensive and uses viability, protein (immunoblotting), and flow cytometry analytic techniques to evaluate tumor cell cultures after treatment with novel therapies. The position also includes responsibility (along with other lab members) for genome sequencing and other high-throughput analytics to identify therapeutically-relevant biologic vulnerabilities in cancer. These studies are coupled with functional validations (gene knockdowns, overexpression, genetic perturbation) to confirm and understand the therapeutic opportunities. Ideally, the research assistant will look forward to preparing manuscripts for publication in high-impact science and medicine journals, so strong writing ability is a plus. The research assistant will also assist in the training of new students and postdoctoral fellows in standard methods of molecular biology and cell culture. Exceptional opportunity for someone planning to attend medical or graduate school.
This laboratory is primarily interested in the biology and therapeutics of cancer.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
- Independently performs routine and non-routine experiments which are moderately complex. Carries out methods of cell biology and molecular biology including: Establishing and maintaining cell cultures from cancer biopsy specimens; Evaluating cancer cell culture responses to drug treatments, using cell proliferation, apoptosis, and immunoblotting assays; Polymerase chain reaction DNA amplification and next generation sequencing methods; Immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting analyses of protein function; DNA cloning in phage and plasmids.
- Develops and implements new molecular biology protocols aimed at improving efficiency of DNA library cloning and sequencing, DNA transfections and transductions, and cell response assays for viability, proliferation, migration and invasion.
- Calculates, transcribes and analyzes data using advanced statistical techniques.
- Prepares and presents oral and written progress reports on experiments to Principal Investigator.
- Reports on progress of work at weekly laboratory meetings. Also, assists in writing up experimental work for grant applications, book chapters, and journal publications.
- Trains new students, residents, postdoctoral fellows and collaborators in the developmental protocols described above.
- Prepares laboratory reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment.
- Maintains supplies inventory in accordance with department procedures.
- Maintains established department policies, procedures and objectives, including the areas of quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection control.
- Performs all other duties and responsibilities as directed.
Qualifications
Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree in a biological/physical science required.
Must have at least one year experience in a directly related research setting.
Undergraduate experience with Creative Writing (or other courses that focus on writing skills, such as critical or analytical writing) is a plus.
Skills/Abilities/Competencies Required
Requires excellent analytical skills.
Must be able to logically and effectively structure tasks and set priorities.
Ability to perform a variety of highly specialized molecular biology procedures.
Must possess strong oral and written communication skills.
On own initiative, ability to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot problems as necessary.
Ability to work independently
Working Conditions
Normal laboratory environment. Lab will contain approximately 5 workers, including post-doctoral fellows, residents, technicians and lab aides.
Exposure to human blood and tissues; occasional use of suspected carcinogens. Minimal risk when established protocols are followed.
Supervisory Responsibility
None. Trains new students, residents, postdoctoral fellows and external collaborators in novel laboratory techniques.
EEO Statement
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.