Lab Co-op Student Electrophysiology

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

2d•$28•Onsite

About The Position

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a leading healthcare nonprofit organization like no other. For decades, we have been taking major steps and pioneering new ways to advance the mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care. By joining the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to our core values and working towards a cure for cystic fibrosis. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by CF. Learn more about why work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Position Summary: CFF LAB: The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's one-of-a-kind research facility, located in Lexington, Massachusetts, accelerates the early stages of therapeutics discovery aimed at restoring function of the defective cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The Lab serves as a critical bridge between discoveries made at academic institutions and the development of new therapies by the biotech and pharmaceutical industry. Since opening in 2012, the Lab’s mission has evolved from small molecule drug discovery to include transformative, DNA- and RNA-based therapeutic approaches targeting the defective CFTR gene or transcript. This strategic shift addresses unmet needs for people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) who are unable to benefit from current highly effective modulator therapies, including those with rare and nonsense variants. The Lab’s efforts are centered on developing treatments for these underserved populations while enabling genetic therapies that offer the greatest promise for a durable cure. COOP PROGRAM SUMMARY: This research experience will focus on learning how scientific discovery data can be translated to treatment of disease. The successful applicant will join the Electrophysiology and Epithelial Cell Core Team and carry out an independent research project and may assist with ongoing projects. The purpose of the Coop term will be to: 1) immerse students in areas of biomedical science not readily accessible on undergraduate campuses, 2) provide an opportunity to learn firsthand how to analyze and interpret new data, 3) experience the process of research as a creative intellectual activity and gain a more realistic view of the opportunities and demands of a professional research career, 4) allow students to gain an in depth understanding of cystic fibrosis (CF) and the rapidly advancing therapeutic landscape for CF. POSITION SUMMARY: Works under supervision on projects conducted within the Electrophysiology team. Will gain hands-on experience with a variety of basic and advanced tissue culture techniques and ion transport assays to address key scientific questions for the CF discovery field. Works closely with Electrophysiology team members to generate and maintain both immortalized and primary human cell cultures, conduct complex tissue-level electrophysiological characterization of CFTR function in ALI cultures. Will learn essentials of scientific data analysis and be able to present findings to supervisor. Expected to prepare and present a summary PowerPoint presentation in an internal group setting.