Research Technician - Biology

Job Title:

Research Technician

Department:

Biology

Hourly Rate:

$23.00 - $27.00. Salary commensurate with relevant experience.

Employment Type:

On-site | Temporary, Full-Time, Non-Exempt

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Gonzalez-Rosa lab in the Biology Department at Boston College is seeking a research technician or associate to join our team. Our lab is interested in (1) identifying the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac regeneration in zebrafish, and (2) developing new genetic and transgenic strains to model complex cardiovascular phenotypes and diseases. Under direction from the PI and other researchers in the lab, the individual hired for this position will perform benchtop experiments, perform zebrafish husbandry, and assist with laboratory operations and setup in support of the lab's research programs. The selected individual will be hired into either a technician or associate position commensurate with qualifications and past experience.

Job Responsibilities

• Assist with ongoing projects in the laboratory which may involve performing the following activities: cloning, plasmid preps, PCR genotyping analysis, DNA and RNA extraction and purification, preparing samples for sequencing experiments, culturing bacteria, microscopy.
• Helps maintain the zebrafish colony.
• Performs fin clipping and DNA extraction for genotyping.
• Perform general laboratory maintenance tasks, which may include:
  • Assisting with making general lab reagents such as media
  • Ordering supplies and equipment and assisting with setup and organization
  • Keeping an inventory of lab supplies and re-ordering supplies as necessary
  • Coordinating equipment maintenance and repair
• Keep a detailed and organized lab notebook
• Maintain and organize general lab zebrafish strains and reagent databases and manage shipping requests
• Attend laboratory meetings, present data, and participate in scientific discussions in the lab
• Contribute to the lab's ongoing efforts to create an inclusive, safe and diverse lab culture
• Read relevant scientific literature and conduct literature searches to enrich the research experience
• May work with vendors to address equipment, reagent or other supply issues
• Assists the principal investigator with some administrative duties (e.g., training undergraduates, record keeping of training, organizing interviews).

Requirements

Required:

• Willingness to learn and use new skills in the laboratory environment
• Ability to maintain detailed and accurate records in lab notebooks and databases
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal communication skills and the ability to work effectively both with others and independently.

Preferred:

• B.A. or B.S. in biological sciences, biochemistry, bioengineering, chemistry or related scientific discipline (required for associate level candidates), applicants with M.S. degrees in biology or related fields are welcome to apply
• Prior biology research lab experience strongly preferred (required for associate)
• Familiarity with molecular biology and genetics and the ability to apply this knowledge to the laboratory setting
• Experience with common lab techniques such as cloning, histology, culturing of bacteria and working with zebrafish and other molecular techniques would be a plus.
• Proficiency with Microsoft or Google Suite software strongly preferred, knowledge of R or other bioinformatics and coding experience would be a plus.
• Ability to commit at least one year and preferably two to the position.