Research Assistant II - Lab

Harvard University • Boston, MA

2h • Onsite

About The Position

The Paulsson lab at Harvard Medical School seeks a multi-talented Research Assistant to contribute to the DARPA AMPHORA program, which aims to develop a portable, cold chain-free system for preserving microbes—including bacteria, fungi, and viruses—from varied samples and settings. The project focuses on developing technologies that maintain bacterial viability and stability under diverse, potentially unpredictable environmental conditions.

The Research Assistant will receive training in state-of-the-art lithography and microfabrication to produce submicron-scale structures for sophisticated microfluidic devices. They will conduct microfluidic experiments using custom-designed devices and advanced microscopy techniques, helping investigate whether bacteria can remain alive and stable for extended periods outside tightly controlled laboratory conditions. The role includes close scientific mentorship, with encouragement to develop individual scientific interests.

The Research Assistant will participate in group meetings, collaborate on papers and reports to funding agencies, attend HMS seminar series, and take part in the scientific and intellectual life of the lab, Harvard Medical School, and the broader AMPHORA team. The position is a nine-month term from the date of hire, with possible extension contingent on performance and continued funding. All duties must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location.

Requirements

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in biological sciences or a related quantitative field.
• One to two or more years of related work experience; relevant coursework may count toward experience.
• Exceptional quantitative reasoning skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as a self-motivated, conscientious member of a multidisciplinary team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with quantitative microscopy, image analysis, and coding.
• Previous research experience.
• Computational experience.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the DARPA AMPHORA program's development of a portable, cold chain-free microbial preservation system.
• Train in and use lithography and microfabrication techniques to produce submicron-scale structures for microfluidic devices.
• Conduct microfluidic experiments using custom-designed devices and advanced microscopy techniques.
• Participate in group meetings and collaborate on papers and reports to funding agencies.
• Attend HMS seminar series and participate in the scientific and intellectual life of the lab, Harvard Medical School, and the broader AMPHORA team.

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