Research Assistant I - Seaman Laboratory

Beth Israel Lahey Health

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Under supervision of the principal investigator, conducts a variety of routine and some specialized experiments using molecular, cell biology and/or biochemistry techniques. Performs lab procedures with speed, precision, records test results, calculates, transcribes, and analyzes data using basic statistics. Duties necessitate broad knowledge of scientific principles and laboratory techniques typically acquired through a bachelor’s degree in biology or related life/natural sciences. Performs routine and non-routine laboratory tests which may include DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, northern blotting; synthesizes and interprets results. May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, flow cytometer, etc. Using analytical abilities and sound judgment, makes decisions regarding the reliability and accuracy of results, repeating procedures when necessary. May assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinating schedules of tests and procedures. May prepare written and/or verbal reports on status of research and the technical procedures used, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or related scientific field required.
0-1 years related work experience required.
Experience with computer systems required, including web based applications and some Microsoft Office applications which may include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint or Access.
Ability to make decisions that are based on specific instructions, standard practices and established procedures which generally require little or no supervision.
Ability to address problems that are routine, somewhat repetitive and generally solved by following clear directions and procedures and by identifying opportunities for process improvements.
Ability to follow general instructions and procedures as provided. Work is monitored by supervisor/manager.
Ability to read, and write in English in order to understand basic safety instructions and take direction from supervisors; communicate effectively with patients, families and other medical center staff; and respond to basic questions.
Ability to understand spoken English in order to follow basic safety instructions and take direction from supervisors; communicate effectively in basic English with patients, families and medical center staff in response to routine questions.
Ability to demonstrate basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices and procedures with the ability to use them in routine situations. Specialized knowledge not required.
Ability to interact respectfully with other employees, professional staff and/or external contacts to offer ideas, identify issues, obtain information or deliver services.
Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude and respond to requests in a timely and respectful manner.

Responsibilities

Processes human blood, serum, and other biological specimens using tissue culture and other laboratory techniques defined by the principles of Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) standard operating procedures (SOPs). These human samples are obtained from phase I/II/III clinical trials testing candidate vaccines/therapeutics against COVID-19, HIV-1, and other emerging pathogens.
Performs in vitro tissue culture-based immune assays to study antibody mediated immunity to COVID-19, HIV-1, and other emerging pathogens in humans.
Maintains and updates procedures and regulatory documentation associated with GCLP clinical trial work and other various research programs.
Coordinates the shipment, transport, and tracking of study specimens from the laboratory’s affiliated clinical sites. This includes walking to nearby clinical research sites to obtain human clinical specimens for processing in the laboratory.
Uses standard research equipment which may include, but not be limited to the following instruments: centrifuge, ultracentrifuge, coulter counter, luminometer, label maker, ELISA reader, Gel Doc, spectrophotometer, and PCR machine.
Obtains and maintains Dangerous Goods Shipping certification and other certifications related to GCLP and Humans Subjects Research.
Monitors laboratory equipment daily for GCLP documentation and notifies supervisor if deviations are found.
Maintains proper documentation of all experimental procedures and results and any deviations from SOPs and study-specific protocols.
Attends courses, lectures, lab meetings, and conferences to further knowledge of research. Also attends hospital lectures/trainings regarding all hospital safety requirements/conditions.
Performs routine and non-routine laboratory tests which may include DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, northern blotting; synthesizes and interprets results.
May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, flow cytometer, etc.
Using analytical abilities and sound judgment, makes decisions regarding the reliability and accuracy of results, repeating procedures when necessary.
May assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinating schedules of tests and procedures
May prepare written and/or verbal reports on status of research and the technical procedures used, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions.