Research Associate II

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

About The Position

The Maehr Lab at UMass Chan Medical School is seeking a Research Associate to support an NIH-funded program focused on engineering stem cell-derived islets for immune tolerance. The lab's research integrates human pluripotent stem cell differentiation, CRISPR-based genome and epigenome engineering, next-generation sequencing, single-cell genomics, and immunology. The goal is to develop stem cell-derived islets that resist autoimmune and allogeneic immune responses while maintaining beta-cell identity and function. The Research Associate will contribute to projects involving human pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation, molecular cloning, gene targeting, immune assays, and genomic profiling. This role involves collaborating with experimental and computational scientists to generate and characterize engineered stem cell lines and evaluate their differentiation, function, molecular state, and immune compatibility.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Biological or Natural Science and 18 months of relevant research experience or a related Master’s degree.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
Ability to analyze complex visual data in a quantitative and objective manner
Ability to work in a team environment

Nice To Haves

Human pluripotent stem cell culture and directed differentiation
Molecular cloning and CRISPR-based gene targeting
RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq, or single-cell omics
Flow cytometry, imaging, or immune-cell assays
Pancreatic beta-cell or islet biology

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project
Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used
Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps with a degree of independence while under the direction of the PI or designee
Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee
Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects
Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations
Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice
Present findings at lab/group meetings
Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted
May assist with laboratory equipment service contracts and monitor maintenance on laboratory equipment
Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards
Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements
Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions
May assist with the training of new lab personnel
Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
May assist with drafting manuscripts sections
Perform other duties as required