Research Assistant I Lab at Harvard University in Boston, MA

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

Job Description

We invite applicants for a Research Assistant position in the Brugge lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts.

The Brugge lab has identified populations of breast epithelial cells that carry chromosome copy number alterations (CNAs) that are among the most common CNAs found in breast cancer (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39567747/). Several lines of evidence suggest that these CNAs increase cell fitness and that cells carrying these CNAs represent the cells-of-origin of breast cancer. The lab is currently using organoids and cell models, as well as genetic screens to examine the cellular programs regulated by these CNAs, how they contribute to cell fitness and tumor initiation.

We welcome applications from candidates with a B.A. degree who are interested in this research area, particularly those who may have prior experience with cell culture, organoid genetic engineering of cells, and/or CRISPR genetic screens. The successful candidate will work with single cell datasets, primary breast tissue, organoid and cell line models to develop an independent research project within the scope of the lab’s research focus.

Under specific direction, the RA I will perform the following job duties:

• Molecular biology, e.g. gene transduction, western blotting, cloning
• Cell culture
• Data analysis
• Contribute to general lab tasks
• Mice husbandry
• Maintaining accurate and detailed records of experiments

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

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

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences or related field preferred
• Two-year commitment required
• Minimum 1 year experience in a research laboratory setting strongly preferred
• Experience in one or more of the following is preferred: mouse handling, cell culture, microscopy
• Highly motivated, good work ethic, and able to work independently and as a team
• Follow protocols with attention to detail
• Produce accurate and high-quality work
• Think creatively to solve problems
• Excellent skills in communication, organization, and time management

Additional Information

• Term: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal, Pre-Placement Medical Evaluation
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 052. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.