"Research Assistant I Lab"

Job Description

The successful candidate for this position will support laboratory operations for an interdisciplinary scientific team that is working to uncover the genetic and biological basis of human brain function and of brain disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Huntington’s disease. The McCarroll Lab invents and uses genomics-based approaches and technologies to study the brain, including methods for analyzing gene expression in thousands of individual cells simultaneously. The lab values strong collaboration among team members in both experimental-laboratory roles (molecular genetics, genomics, neurobiology) and data science roles (statistics, software development). The lab is located in the New Research Building at the Harvard Medical School Longwood Campus.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Assist with day-to-day lab operations by helping to track and organize supplies and materials to ensure the lab remains stocked and prepared for experiments.
• Under supervision, contribute to laboratory experiments using established protocols.
• Help with ordering reagents and supplies as needed, including tracking usage in consultation with more senior lab members.
• Support the maintenance of the lab’s information and sample tracking systems, including entering data and assisting other lab members in locating samples or reagents.
• Help document tissue and sample receipt; assist with organizing freezers and sample inventories.
• Package and ship samples according to lab protocols, and assist with internal and external submissions.
• Help maintain laboratory equipment and assist in scheduling calibrations and repairs.
• Under the direction of the Lab Manager, participate in safety and compliance efforts, including preparing the lab for inspections.
• Assist with maintaining mouse colonies, including basic care and genotyping, under guidance.
• Perform other related tasks as directed by supervisor or more senior staff.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

At least one-year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

A strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Suite preferred. The successful candidate will be highly organized, exhibit strong attention to detail, and able to collaborate with a diverse group including laboratory scientists, project managers, professional staff, and trainees.