20-Jan-2022

Harvard Medical School

56750BR

Job Summary

The Brugge lab studies breast and ovarian cancer, focusing on mechanisms of cancer initiation, progression and drug resistance. The lab is looking for a highly motivated research assistant with experience in molecular/cell biology techniques to join our team. As research assistant, the candidate will be working on a project studying persistor cells in various breast and ovarian cancer models, including mouse models. Persistor cells are cancer cells that remain after cancer therapy and contribute to tumor relapse. The goal of this project is to characterize persistor cells in order to identify vulnerabilities that can be therapeutically targeted. The research assistant will be supervised by a postdoctoral fellow and receive additional training in laboratory techniques, experimental design and data analysis.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

TECHNICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

-    Perform cell culture of patient-derived cancer cell lines using aseptic technique
-    Perform drug treatment and generation of dose-response curves in patient-derived cells
-    Generation of lentivirus and transduction of cancer cells
-    Perform flow cytometry, high-content imaging and other molecular bench work
-    Perform data analyses
-    Evaluate/troubleshoot problems related to sample analysis and preparation
-    Maintain and prepare laboratory notebooks
-    Participate in regular progress update meetings

Basic Qualifications

College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline (at least one year related work experience - relevant course work may
count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills

-    BS/BA in a Biology, Chemistry, Medical Technology or related field preferred.
-    Minimum 1 year experience in a research laboratory setting strongly preferred.
-    Experience with mammalian cell culture and mouse work is preferred, but not required.
-    Experience with data acquisition, data analysis, data presentation and documentation is preferred.
-    Must be able to work closely with others & possess excellent interpersonal & communication skills.
-    General lab skills, adherence to sterile technique and knowledge of lab safety.
-    Familiar with operation & performance of basic lab equipment, i.e., centrifuge, microscopes, etc.
-    Good technical skills, attention to detail, able to make sound judgment, good problem solving and analytical skills.
-    Work with human primary cells and various hazardous materials.

Additional Information

This is a one-year, fully benefits eligible, term position from date of hire with possibility of extension, contingent on work performance and continued funding to support the position. 

Offer is contingent on successful completion of pre-placement occupational health screening. 

Harvard requires COVID vaccination for all Harvard community members. 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.

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 hours/week | Monday-Friday | 9:00am to 5:00pm

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.