Research Assistant I Lab

Harvard University • Boston, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases (IID) focuses on the biological, immunological, epidemiological and ecological aspects of viral, bacterial and protozoan diseases of animals and humans, including the vectors that transmit infectious agents. Research in the department's laboratories is primarily focused on diseases of developing countries. Insects are a key gateway for spreading disease because of their ability to ferry pathogens from one host to another. These vectors represent important biological touch points, especially in malaria, and we are pursuing innovative research programs to illuminate their roles and identify strategies for future disease control. In Africa — where the majority of malaria deaths occur — the primary vector of disease is the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. The malaria parasite is transmitted through the bites of female mosquitoes, whose high reproductive capacity fuels malaria transmission. Therefore, targeting these insects (and the parasites they carry) holds great promise as a strategy for future disease control. The successful candidate will support the research of the Department and of the Catterccia Laboratory, focusing on parasite-vector interactions. The Research Assistant will study mosquito reproduction and its interaction with malaria parasite transmission, as well as help in the development and testing of new chemical interventions for parasite control in mosquitoes with the ultimate goal of developing innovative malaria control strategies.

Requirements

• 1+ years of relevant experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered
• Experience in a life sciences molecular biology wet lab environment
• Experience in routine molecular biology methodologies
• Experience with parasite in vitro culturing or cell culture
• Experience with high throughput assays
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques including creating standard solutions, dilutions, use of micropipettes and other common laboratory apparatuses
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Experience working in a diverse group setting, both collaboratively but also independently
• Capacity to quickly adapt to the needs of a fast-paced research environment/team
• Must be able to work part time in a facility with constant temperature of 80 F and relative humidity of 70-80%.
• Handling of human-derived samples such as blood, as well as malaria parasites, is required in this position.
• Scheduling flexibility is needed on an occasional basis, such as extended shift hours on evenings, weekend and holiday closures as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Although full training will be provided, some experience with general molecular biology techniques, parasite in vitro culturing, microscopy and/or mosquito rearing is an advantage, as is general experience working with biosafety level 2+ pathogens.
• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology or similar field strongly preferred
• Knowledge/education/interest in host-vector/host-parasite interactions, public/global health, tropical infectious diseases and epidemiology

Responsibilities

• Malaria parasite culturing, controlled mosquito infections and mosquito microdissection.
• Routine molecular biological work such as isolation of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR), protein analysis assays and immunofluorescence microscopy.
• Mosquito maintenance, if needed.
• Other basic laboratory duties as assigned.
• Interact and coordinate work with a large variety of other staff and researchers including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and senior scientists, as needed for each responsibility.
• Other basic laboratory duties may be required as needed.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level