Research Assistant I

Beth Israel Lahey Health

5d • $19 - $26

About The Position

Under the supervision of the principal investigator, the Research Assistant I conducts a variety of experiments using molecular biology, cell biology, and/or biochemistry techniques. The role includes recording test results; calculating, transcribing, and analyzing data using basic statistics; and synthesizing and interpreting laboratory results. The lab offers training in molecular biology and basic genomic and bioinformatic methods, with research focused on the roles of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer predisposition genes in DNA repair and cancer. The position offers opportunities for authorship on high-impact papers and is described as a springboard for graduate or medical school.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or a related scientific field.
• 0–1 years of related work experience.
• Experience with computer systems, including web-based applications and some Microsoft Office applications, which may include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Access.
• Ability to make decisions based on specific instructions, standard practices, and established procedures, generally with little or no supervision.
• Ability to solve routine, somewhat repetitive problems by following clear directions and procedures and identifying opportunities for process improvement.
• Ability to follow general instructions and procedures; work is monitored by a supervisor or manager.
• Ability to read and write English to understand basic safety instructions, take direction, communicate effectively, and respond to basic questions.
• Ability to understand spoken English to follow basic safety instructions, take direction, and communicate in basic English in response to routine questions.
• Basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures, with the ability to apply them in routine situations; specialized knowledge is not required.
• Ability to interact respectfully with 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.
• Ability to exert up to 20 pounds of force frequently to move objects and to stand for periods of time or move throughout the hospital campus.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non-routine laboratory tests, potentially including DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and northern blotting; synthesize and interpret results.
• Operate and maintain moderate to complex laboratory equipment, such as a spectrophotometer and flow cytometer.
• Assess the reliability and accuracy of results and repeat procedures when necessary.
• Assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinating test and procedure schedules.
• Prepare written and/or verbal reports on research status and technical procedures, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions.
• Record test results and calculate, transcribe, and analyze data using basic statistics.

What This Job Offers

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