Research Assistant 1 - Geographic Medicine & Infectious Diseases

Tufts Medicine•Boston, MA

51d

About The Position

This role focuses on performing work related to research and development of new products, innovation, and improvement of products and processes. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Research Programs and Projects duties: Supports the development of new products and innovation. Includes Clinical roles focused on research projects. Positions in this family perform basic, translational, and/or clinical research towards solving a specific problem for an entity or community. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower level professionals or manage processes and programs. The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An entry level role that applies broad theoretical job knowledge typically obtained through advanced education. May require the following proficiency: work is closely supervised, problems faced are not typically difficult or complex, and explains facts, policies and practices related to job area. This position reports to the Principal Investigator and provides assistance in support of research activities under close supervision. The research concerns babesiosis, a tick-borne disease caused by a parasite that infects red blood cells. The research assistant will participate in projects that aim at i) developing a protein-based vaccine against human babesiosis, and ii) testing novel compounds for the treatment of relapsing babesiosis. Techniques will include flow cytometry to monitor the frequency of infected red blood cells in blood, ELISA to quantify antibody titers in plasma, and PCR to determine mouse genotypes and track low-grade infection.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel and Power Point), and familiarity with databases (e.g., experience using MS Access).
Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle competing demands in order to meet project timelines.
Ability to follow directions from supervisor and work well in a collaborative team environment.
Ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities as needed.
Ability to be meticulous and detail-oriented in following procedures and recordkeeping.
Ability to sit for extended periods of time.

Nice To Haves

One (1) year of research experience.
Bachelor's degree preferred.
Experience with flow cytometry, ELISA and PCR is welcome.
The work requires handling of mice.
Knowledge of immunology is a plus.

Responsibilities

Facilitates data collection and ensuring that all data is collected in a timely fashion, which includes identifying missing data and implementing data checks, as well as generation of reports.
Performs tasks which may require familiarity with a variety of protocols, techniques and equipment.
Maintains and updates records, reports and files as required.
Assists with preparation of abstracts, presentations, and publications as needed.
Attends meetings as required, may be asked to take minutes.
Performs literature searches either relevant to the project(s), else in pursuit of new techniques/ideas to expand relevant basic knowledge.
Schedules meetings or study visits, as well as calendar maintenance. Logs work performed.
Assists with the collection, storage, and shipping of biological samples.
Maintains and updates records in accordance with IRB/WIRB and sponsor requirements.
Maintains collaborative, team relationships with peers and colleagues in order to effectively contribute to the working group’s achievement of goals, and to help foster a positive work environment.