"Research Technician"

GENERAL SUMMARY / OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

A Research Technician position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Coleman Lindsley (https://lindsleylab.dana-farber.org) at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) and Harvard Medical School. We use interdisciplinary approaches at the interface of genomics and molecular biology to understand the mechanisms of human disease, with the aim of translating these insights into novel therapies for patients with cancer. This position is ideal for recent graduates planning careers in biomedical research or medicine, and provides rigorous training in modern molecular, cellular, and genomic techniques in a mentored research environment. Prior research technicians from the Lindsley Lab have gone on to competitive graduate and medical training programs.

This position will support research efforts studying the mechanisms by which leukemia develops in cancer predisposition syndromes, with a particular emphasis on telomere biology. Individuals with germline mutations in telomere maintenance genes have very short telomeres with various clinical manifestations of accelerated organ degeneration collectively referred to as telomere biology disorders (TBDs). Patients with TBDs have a markedly increased risk of developing myeloid malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The Lindsley Lab is dedicated to understanding the mechanisms linking impaired telomere maintenance with transformation to myeloid malignancies and developing approaches to improve patient outcomes through rational surveillance and novel treatment.

Inspired by discoveries made in the Lindsley Lab, the Dana-Farber Telomere Biology Disorder Multidisciplinary Program was established in 2020 to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of patients with TBD through exceptional clinical care and scientific discovery. Our clinical program includes pediatric and adult experts in hematology, stem cell transplant, pulmonary, lung transplant, hepatology, liver transplant, oral medicine, and dermatology. The Research Technician would function at the interface of laboratory-based and clinical science, supporting projects related to the core themes of our TBD translational research program, including:

• Functional characterization of germline telomere maintenance gene variants
• Discovery of novel TBD-associated genes
• Determining the molecular pathways of progression to myeloid malignancies
• The development of novel therapies for patients with TBD

We strive to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every lab member feels they belong. We are committed to diversifying our lab and encourage all to apply without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other groups as protected by law.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Laboratory environment: occasionally works with toxic chemicals, biohazards, and substances emitting unpleasant odors.

QUALIFICATIONS:

B.A/B.S in biological sciences, biochemistry, or a related field required. Prior laboratory research experience (including undergraduate coursework or summer research) is preferred but not required.

The ideal addition to the Lindsley Laboratory will:

• Be kind and collegial
• Enjoy working in a team environment with a wide variety of faculty and staff
• Have good oral and written communication skills
• Be eager to learn new techniques and take on increasing responsibility
• Be able to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot solutions
• Possess outstanding planning, organizational, and multi-tasking skills

Perform CRISPR HDR isogenic cell line generation and validation. Conduct DNA and RNA sequencing and library preparation. Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings, including assistance with grant preparation. Maintain detailed notebook of all work-related activities. Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety information as well as the standard operation procedures specific to each laboratory. Collaborate with laboratory manager and staff scientists for the development, modification and improvement of standard operating procedures. Assist with the daily upkeep of the lab, overseeing the completion of routine lab tasks, deliveries of supplies, and maintenance of lab stocks. Cell-based telomere elongation assays Various telomere length quantification methods (qPCR, Terminal Restriction Fragment analysis, TeSLA, long-read sequencing)

Such projects will integrate analysis of primary human samples with studies using engineered cell line models. Training will be provided in all relevant techniques; prior experience in tissue culture, flow cytometry, molecular biology, or small animal models is an advantage but not required.

We are seeking enthusiastic, self-motivated individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, challenging research environment, and can interact well with others as part of a cohesive team.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Research Technician will work under supervision to support the Lindsley Laboratory in a variety of ways:

• Contribute to publications as a co-author and present findings at lab meetings.
• Receive mentorship from the PI, postdoctoral fellows, and senior staff, with opportunities for professional development and independent project design.
• Process patient blood and bone marrow samples, working directly at the interface of clinical care and translational research.
• Maintain cells in culture and perform in vitro experiments at biological safety levels 1 and 2.
• Perform standard molecular biology and biochemical techniques, such as western blots, DNA/RNA isolations, PCR/qPCR, and flow cytometry.
• Perform telomere-specific assays, including: