Research Technician I
Massachusetts General Hospital(MGH)

Job Info

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GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Ragon Institute is a highly unique, innovative, and collaborative research center at the forefront of biomedical science. Founded by Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT, and Harvard, the Ragon vision is a bold one: to harness the power of the immune system to prevent and cure human disease on a global scale. This vision is pursued and advanced every day by a group of highly motivated individuals. The Ragon Institute, at every level, depends upon collaboration, compassion, dedication, and innovation. It is a results-oriented organization that seeks people who not only embrace these values but who thrive in teams and want to work in a dynamic environment.

A position is open for a full-time technician in the Balazs laboratory at the Ragon Institute of MGH, Harvard and MIT. The candidate will assist in research to engineer immunity against HIV-1 and Malaria infection. Knowledge gained from these studies will help to guide the design of novel interventions against HIV and Malaria in patients. For more information, please visit our website at http://balazslab.mgh.harvard.edu

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the direction of the principal investigator and/or a research fellow, the applicant independently carries out daily activities of the laboratory.

• Performs assays utilizing standard techniques (antibody staining, flow cytometry, DNA/RNA extraction and analysis, standard and quantitative PCR, ELISA, cloning)
• Cell/tissue processing, culture, transfection, reporter gene assays and cell maintenance
• Performing experiments in a BSL2+ level area involving live HIV cultures. This includes tissue culture and primary culture, ELISA, flow cytometry and other diagnostic tests.
• Oversees animal colonies for the project and assists in decisions on animal health, colony size, and other issues. This will include an HIV+ colony of humanized mice. Performs animal procedures including blood and organ collection. Communicates to researchers on a regular basis regarding status of colonies.
• Performs modifications and testing of scientific protocols, computer software, tools or the equipment used for research/experiments.
• Conducts literature research; provides input into research reports, journals and/or articles; may present research work at seminars and participate in lab discussions
• Assists researchers in data analysis and interpretation by applying scientific software applications and tools.
• Assists in reviewing and revising standard operating procedures and implementing quality control practices.
• Performs lab duties such as preparing stock solutions, assisting with lab inventory and other general lab maintenance.
• Ensures quality control of equipment, reagents and cellular components.
• Participates in on-going quality control/assurance programs.
• Ordering and inventory of laboratory supplies.
• Detailed documentation of the experimental work.
• Regular maintenance, cataloging and back-up of experimental data files.
• Assembling and delivering presentations of progress at bi-weekly lab meetings
• The position has potential for paid formal training opportunities through employer (e.g. phlebotomy, statistics, excel, access etc.).

Qualifications
EDUCATION: BS/BA

EXPERIENCE: 0 - 2 years experience

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent
• 1-2 years relevant research experience preferred
• Must possess exceptional organizational skills and be able to apply these when carrying out experiments and collecting data from large sets of samples
• Must be highly-motivated and productive, with the ability to both work as part of a team as well as carry out research tasks independently
• Must be capable of multitasking effectively to maximize productivity
• Needs to exhibit a willingness to learn and grow
• Must possess excellent documentation skills
• Must have good interpersonal skills
• Occasional weekend or evening flexibility may be required
• Computer experience is essential

EEO Statement
Massachusetts General Hospital 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.

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