Research Assistant I Lab

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Job Summary:

The Balskus lab is searching for a technician to provide experimental support for an on-going project aimed at developing therapeutics for the vaginal microbiome. Working closely with senior lab members, the technician will primarily be responsible for assisting in the design, execution and analysis of assays that assess microbial growth, metabolism, and enzymatic activity. Additionally, the employee will assist with other tasks that support the operation of the overall lab, as described in more detail below. The research assistant may work on an independent project, but within specific guidelines. Strong organizational and communication skills are critical. Final candidates may be asked to demonstrate their technical ability through an in-lab demonstration.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Under supervision of a senior lab member, assist in the design and execution of assays to assess anaerobic bacterial growth or enzymatic activity. This includes aliquoting clinical samples and testing these samples for enzymatic activity. This will also include the preparation of vaginal bacterial cultures for testing in various enzymatic assays.
• Assist in the maintenance of equipment and instrumentation for these analyses including lab automation instruments such as a Biomek iSeries and other liquid handling instruments.
• Inoculation and maintenance of anaerobic microbial cultures from freezer stocks in preparation for assays.
• Preparation and sterilization of growth media.
• Purification of enzymes.
• Preparation and analysis of samples through using various analytical methods, in particular small molecule liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), quantitative PCR (qPCR), RNA-Seq, and biochemical assays on clinical samples and cultures.
• Working with a senior lab member, develop workflows for processing and analyzing the resulting data using python. Report results using a variety of scientific, word processing, and presentation platforms.
• Maintenance and cleaning of additional laboratory equipment and glassware.
• May instruct other lab members in certain techniques or procedures. The primary responsibility will include the maintenance, utilization, and training of other lab members of a Biomek iSeries liquid handling workstation. 
• Ordering lab supplies and processing invoices, and other administrative duties as needed.
• Assist with the preparation and coordination of shipping or transfer of samples between collaborators labs. 
• Thorough documentation of all research activities in electronic lab notebook. 
• The successful candidate may be invited to attend lab group meetings as appropriate.
• The candidate will also have the opportunity to attend external research consortium meetings, assist with writing of progress reports, other administrative tasks, and interacting with the funders of this project (Gates Foundation)  when necessary.

Working Conditions:

Monday-Friday on campus

Basic Qualifications:

A minimum of 1-year full time research experience working in a biological or chemistry laboratory setting, with specific experience in performing biochemical assays and evaluating bacterial growth. College level course work required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Degree in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical biology or a related discipline strongly preferred. Additionally, the successful candidate will demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills, a desire to learn new techniques and instruments, good organizational skills, and the ability to work with a diverse team of scientists. Applicants with prior experience in anaerobic microbial culture, lab automation, assay development, computer programming and data analysis, are highly encouraged to apply.

• Appointment End Date: This is a one year term position
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information:
  • All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources

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.