Research Assistant II Vaccine Research

Beth Israel Lahey Health • Boston, MA

20d

About The Position

When you join the growing BILH team, you're not just taking a job, you're making a difference in people's lives.Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant supports the vaccine research lab by performing a wide range of routine and specialized laboratory procedures in a GxP (GCLP)-compliant environment. The role involves conducting molecular and cell biology assays, including blood and tissue processing, cell isolation, cell culture, and immunoassays such as ELISA, ELISPOT, and intracellular cytokine staining. These assays are performed on human, non-human primate, and rodent specimens following established protocols. The Research Assistant is responsible for carrying out quality control analyses, accurately documenting data, interpreting results, and maintaining both the specimen management system and document control system. The position also requires the ability to operate, monitor, and maintain moderate- to high-complexity laboratory equipment, while ensuring full compliance with laboratory safety and biosafety policies. Success in this role requires speed, precision, and a strong understanding of the underlying scientific principles, as well as the ability to perform Level I duties with increased independence, analytical capability, and problem-solving skills. The position demands excellent organizational and communication abilities, effective time management, confidentiality, accountability, and meticulous attention to detail. The ability to plan and organize technical work, manage multiple simultaneous tasks, and uphold high-quality standards is essential. Preferred qualifications include knowledge of hematology, immunology, and relevant laboratory principles and procedures.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or related scientific field required.
• 1-3 years related work experience required, including 1 year of related experience or a Master's degree with requisite knowledge and skills.
• Experience with computer systems required, including web-based applications and some Microsoft Office applications which may include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint or Access.

Nice To Haves

• knowledge of hematology, immunology, and relevant laboratory principles and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Performs routine and non-routine laboratory tests which may include DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, northern blotting; synthesizes and interprets results. (essential)
• May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, flow cytometer, etc. (essential)
• Using analytical abilities and sound judgment, makes decisions regarding the reliability and accuracy of results, repeating procedures when necessary. (essential)
• May assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinating schedules of tests and procedures (essential)
• 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. (essential)
• May have technical expertise in specific area(s) that surpasses basic performance expectations (i.e. knowledge/use of the electron microscope), contributes to the laboratory by utilizing this experience (essential)
• May demonstrate routine to complex lab techniques to others in the lab. (essential)
• Attends Medical Center lectures regarding all safety requirements/conditions. Attends courses, lectures, and conferences to further own knowledge of research and laboratory techniques, consults with other researchers and technicians to exchange information. May demonstrate routine to complex lab techniques to others in the lab. (essential)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees