Research Assistant I

Harvard University • Boston, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Fishell Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School is seeking a Research Assistant. This role will support a Research Fellow's doctoral research on the developmental plasticity of Myh8+ somatostatin (SST) interneuron synaptic connectivity with cortical pyramidal neurons. The successful candidate will also contribute to the broader operations and scientific program of the laboratory under the coordination of the lab manager.

Requirements

• College background or equivalent experience, preferably in biology, neuroscience, biochemistry or a related discipline.
• At least one-year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Nice To Haves

• Bachelors degree in biology, neuroscience, or biochemistry or related field preferred.
• Previous research experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Advance the experimental pipeline for current Research Fellow’s doctoral project characterizing the developmental plasticity of the Myh8+ subclass of somatostatin (SST) interneurons and their synaptic integration with cortical pyramidal neurons.
• Mouse colony management for Cre, reporter, and intersectional lines relevant to the Myh8+ SST population.
• Perfusion, tissue processing, cryosectioning, and immunohistochemistry.
• Confocal and high-resolution imaging, followed by quantitative image analysis of synaptic and morphological features.
• Assisting with stereotaxic viral infections, in situ hybridization (HCR/RNAscope), and preparations for ex vivo electrophysiology as needed.
• Maintaining rigorous electronic lab notebook records and contributing to figure preparation and data summaries.
• Support broader laboratory operations under lab manager, including shared reagent preparation, ordering, and inventory.
• Genotyping pipeline and mouse husbandry oversight.
• Equipment maintenance and onboarding of new lab members.

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
• Education Level: No Education Listed