Research Assistant IV - Bioengineering and Biosensors

Harvard University • Boston, MA

376d

About The Position

The Wyss Institute is seeking a Research Assistant IV to join the Sustainability Initiative, focusing on the development of innovative biosensor technology and sustainability-related projects. This role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams, technical discretion in research, and contributions to publications, all while upholding the institute's values of collaboration, innovation, and impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field.
• Three or more years of hands-on lab experience involving molecular biology techniques such as molecular cloning, PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, protein purification, and cell/tissue culturing.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree is preferred.
• Four or more years of hands-on lab experience is strongly preferred.
• Experience in laboratory automation, including the development of high-throughput workflows for protein construction, culturing, purification, and validation.
• Experience with microbiology and molecular techniques in various microbes.
• Computational skills, including basic understanding of programming languages for developing and optimizing automation scripts.
• Skills related to biosensor discovery, characterization, and optimization, including plasmid design, directed evolution, and flow cytometry/FACS.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with experience in training staff and mentoring students.
• Proven track record of contributing to grant and paper writing and external funding efforts.

Responsibilities

• Independently develop and optimize biosensor technology, including strain engineering, assaying, and automation.
• Contribute to seeding new projects in areas such as biomaterials, biomanufacturing, bioremediation, and novel foods.
• Provide technical support and expertise to ongoing projects, ensuring high standards of research and innovation.
• Provide training and mentorship to junior technicians and other project staff.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones and objectives.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments and data analysis.
• Contribute to the preparation of research reports, presentations, and publications.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess, 3 personal days per year, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement program providing 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and half-priced public transportation passes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree