"Research Assistant I"

Job Description

The Sharpe laboratory at Harvard Medical School seeks a highly motivated individual to support research in mouse and human tumor immunology, and/or autoimmunity. Under the supervision of the Lab Manager and/or senior trainees, this individual will perform a wide range of highly sophisticated laboratory techniques, working closely with fellows and students to analyze the functions of immunoregulatory pathways. This includes immunological techniques (immune cell isolation, assays of stromal, myeloid, and T cell function, cytokine ELISA assays, multiparameter flow cytometry, handling recombinant DNA vectors), molecular biology procedures (PCR, RNA and/or DNA preparation from tissues, as well as bulk and single-cell RNASeq). Animal work is required (measuring tumors, monitoring disease scores, weighing mice, survival bleeding, i.p. / s.c. / i.v. injections, generating chimeras), mouse husbandry (colony maintenance, genotyping). This individual may also handle primary human samples (tissue dissociation, cellular isolation, immunological assays). They will analyze and summarize data, organize into lab notebooks, and report experimental results weekly. This individual may assist with troubleshooting and optimizing new techniques. This individual will also assist with lab organization, maintenance of lab equipment, and lab safety activities. The successful candidate will demonstrate initiative and be invested in the success of research projects. They will have enthusiasm for taking a hands-on, problem-solving approach, learning on the job, and collaboration. They should possess an outstanding academic record and strong communication skills, demonstrate innovative and analytical thinking, and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team.

Working Conditions: Research laboratory, computer work

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

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

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related discipline is desireable.
• Willingness to work with mice.
• Demonstrated abilities in molecular biology techniques, cell culture, and/or animals preferred, but not required.
• Must possess strong oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Must possess high level of initiative and investment in the success of research projects.
• Ability to maintain careful records of experiments; detail-oriented; meticulous work habits; possess strong organizational, analytical and communication skills; can take direction and work well as part of a team.

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: This is a two-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: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 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

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.