Research Assistant II - Lab

Harvard University • Boston, MA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Klein lab in Systems Biology seeks a Research Assistant II to support and advance the lab's microfluidics and genomics capabilities. The lab has recently developed a microfluidic genomic platform, called the CAGE platform, which allows combining live-cell culturing with subsequent genomic assays. The successful candidate will take primary responsibility for operating the CAGE microfluidic platform and for preparing genomic libraries, working closely with graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other lab members across a range of projects. Research in the lab spans bacterial massively perturbation assays through stem cell biology, and the Research Assistant will have the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge work in several of these areas. The role offers substantial hands-on technical training, exposure to a broad range of experimental systems, and collaborative engagement with multiple ongoing research programs.

Requirements

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in the biological sciences or related quantitative field.
• One to two years related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).
• An exceptional undergraduate academic record in the biological sciences or a related quantitative field.
• Prior laboratory research experience in molecular biology, such as through undergraduate research, coursework-based research, or a summer research program.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and reliability, with the ability to execute complex multi-step protocols accurately and reproducibly.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with multiple team members on concurrent projects.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with standard molecular biology techniques is advantageous.
• Prior experience with microfluidics, next-generation sequencing library preparation, or single-cell methods is a plus but is not required; training will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the CAGE microfluidic platform. This includes running microfluidic experiments, performing routine maintenance and troubleshooting, managing reagent inventory and preparation, tracking consumables, and ensuring the platform remains in reliable working order for lab-wide use.
• Serve as a technical resource for platform users. The Research Assistant will collaborate with multiple members of the lab, supporting their experiments on the platform and coordinating scheduling and sample handling across concurrent projects.
• Prepare genomic libraries, with particular emphasis on multi-step CAGE genomics protocols. This includes executing established protocols with precision, maintaining detailed and accurate records, assessing library quality, and contributing to protocol optimization and troubleshooting.
• Contribute to ongoing research projects led by members of the lab, with opportunities to participate in experimental design, data generation, and interpretation.
• Maintain rigorous documentation of experimental procedures and results and participate in lab meetings and group discussions.

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: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed