Research Associate II, Zhang Lab

The Broad Institute • Cambridge, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Zhang Lab at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard is seeking to recruit a Research Associate with expertise in proteomics and a passion for learning to join our creative, diverse, and dynamic research team. The Zhang lab is broadly focused on developing programmable therapeutics and working to improve human health and wellbeing. One aspect of this work is centered around analyzing the proteome, peptidome, metabolome, and lipidome to discover new bioactive molecules as well as assess the efficacy of therapeutics we develop. The goal of this position is to support proteomic and peptidomic projects across the lab, from sample preparation to data analysis. The successful candidate will work closely with a small team of Zhang lab members to develop quantitative and qualitative proteomic and peptidomic assays, including sample preparation, method optimization, enzymatic digestion, isobaric labeling, sample clean-up, and data analysis pipelines. The candidate should have a strong foundation in protein biology and chemistry, as well as a keen interest in protein and peptide function and interactions. The ideal candidate will have experience in proteomics-based research or equivalent expertise in the field. Hands-on experience with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for detailed protein characterization is essential. Prior experience in operating MS instruments is desirable. Proficiency with common proteomics data analysis software (e.g., PEAKS, FragPipe, DIA-NN, Skyline) is highly desirable, along with experience handling large datasets and performing statistical analyses of proteomics results. The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard provides an outstanding work environment characterized by diversity, innovation, and a strong commitment to work–life balance. The Zhang Lab shares this mission, striving to foster a workplace culture that promotes diversity, intellectual curiosity, flexibility, and integrity. Our lab is a fun, vibrant, fast-paced, results-driven, and collaborative environment. Broad employees receive a generous benefits package—including a competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, a retirement plan, and additional benefits—as well as opportunities for career advancement. For more details, visit: https://www.broadinstitute.org/benefits/benefits-working-broad

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in molecular/cellular biology, neurobiology, biochemistry, or a related field; 2 – 3 years of relevant experience is highly desirable.
• Experience with mass spectrometry.
• Ability to critically read, interpret, and adapt scientific literature.
• Strong organization, documentation, and time management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proven problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in operating MS instruments is desirable.
• Proficiency with common proteomics data analysis software (e.g., PEAKS, FragPipe, DIA-NN, Skyline) is highly desirable, along with experience handling large datasets and performing statistical analyses of proteomics results.
• The ideal candidate will have experience in proteomics-based research or equivalent expertise in the field.

Responsibilities

• Perform proteomic and peptidomic sample preparation.
• Optimize methods for quantitative and qualitative proteomic and peptidomic assays.
• Instrument maintenance and operation.
• Process and interpret raw mass spectrometry data using specialized software (e.g., PEAKS, FragPipe, DIA-NN, Skyline)
• Help design upstream experiments to maximize utility of mass spec data.
• Contribute to the lab’s research through teamwork, discussion, and collaboration.

Benefits

• Broad employees receive a generous benefits package—including a competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, a retirement plan, and additional benefits—as well as opportunities for career advancement.
• competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and health savings accounts; at least 13 paid holidays; winter closure; paid time off; parental and family care leave; and an employee assistance program, among other Broad benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees