"Research Technician: Pediatric Oncology, Heikamp Lab"

The Heikamp Lab at Dana-Farber is seeking a Research Technician who is interested in becoming a part of translational wet lab research in pediatric cancer. Led by Dr. Emily Heikamp, MD PhD, our work focuses on high-risk forms of pediatric leukemia that are driven by oncogenic fusion proteins. We aim to understand the mechanisms by which oncogenic fusion proteins drive leukemia, in order to disrupt their activity for therapeutic purposes. Oncogenic fusion proteins can promote epigenetic dysregulation in leukemia, and we are investigating whether targeted epigenetic therapies can thwart oncogenic fusion protein activity.

Previous research lab experience is encouraged but is not required. We are particularly interested in candidates with prior experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, and in vivo animal modeling of leukemia or other diseases. We seek highly motivated candidates who are available for 2 years in the laboratory. We understand that some candidates may wish to apply to medical school and/or graduate school, and we provide mentoring through our work in the laboratory to enable Research Technicians to take the next steps in their careers.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Website: https://labs.dana-farber.org/heikamplab/

Responsibilities:

Research Technicians will be mentored by postdoctoral fellows and senior scientists within the laboratory. They will assist with experiments and will also function independently to carry out essential functions in the laboratory, including but not limited to:

• Cell culture
• Flow cytometry
• DNA/RNA/Protein analyses
• CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering
• Assisting with chromatin-based techniques and next generation sequencing library preparation
• Assisting with animal work, including in vivo modeling of leukemia, as well as breeding and maintaining genetically engineered mice
• Attending lab meetings and seminars
• Maintaining an electronic lab notebook and inventories of reagents and samples
• Ordering, receiving, and organizing lab supplies and reagents

Qualifications:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND EXPECTATIONS:

Bachelor's degree required, and a major in biology or a STEM field is preferred. Knowledge of molecular biology, biochemistry and epigenetics obtained through basic science undergraduate coursework Excellent communication and meticulous organization skills Willingness to work on a team and support every member Working knowledge of data management, word processing, graphic software (MS-Excel, Word, Graphpad/PRISM) is preferred. The position is expected to work full time (40 hours/week).

PATIENT CONTACT: None