We are currently seeking a dynamic, interested, and curious Research Technician within the lab of Dr. Chenghua Gu at Harvard Medical School. The Gu lab studies the interface of the nervous and vascular systems. Their mission is to understand the cellular and physiological mechanisms underlying the unique neurovascular interactions including the blood-brain barrier and neurovascular coupling, and to harness their discoveries for therapeutics. More information on the lab can be found on their website.
The ideal Research Assistant will be well organized, self-motivated, and demonstrate responsibility. While here, the individual will gain experience with the scientific method, experimental design, leadership, time management, and have the freedom to implement their own ideas to help to accelerate scientific projects.
In this role, you will work closely with a postdoctoral fellow or small team focusing on one of two areas of research, depending on their background and area of interest:
Blood-Brain Barrier: Our lab studies the endothelial cells that form the blood-brain barrier. We have found that these cells express a unique set of genes, which we hypothesize are important for maintaining the blood-brain barrier’s integrity. In this role, you will work with other lab members to study how these genes exert their functions in the mouse brain, using techniques such as:
A variety of imaging strategies, mouse genetics, as well as cell and molecular biology techniques.
What we provide:
A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
Joining the vibrant Harvard Medical School research community.
A culture that promotes curiosity, teamwork, and continuous growth within a world-renowned research institution.
Opportunities for mentorship and professional development including potential contribution to research publications.
Principal Responsibilities:
Collaborate with Postdocs, Graduate Students, and other lab members on the design, preparation, and execution of experiments
Handle mice, including genotyping and some husbandry work
Participate in laboratory meetings and read literature applicable to the research area
Analyze data using standard and machine learning algorithm
Maintain a lab notebook of raw data and organize data for analysis by senior lab members
Keep detailed records
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Neuroscience, Psychology, Biology, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry or related discipline
1-2 years of experience working a related research lab
Prior experience animal husbandry, PCR, and knowledge of basic genetics
Flexibility to work as needed around the timeline of the animal experiments
Self-motivated and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Exemplary organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to follow instruction with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.
Physical Requirements
Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.
Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.
Please Note:
This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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Compensation and Benefits
Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.
Compensation Range
$18.40 (minimum) - $23.03 (midpoint) - $29.93 (maximum)Pay Type:
HourlyHHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.
HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer
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