Research Associate IV

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

About The Position

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate IV designs and performs complex research experiments with a high degree of independence. The position contributes significantly to research program management and participates in multiple aspects of research projects and laboratory maintenance. The Bucci Lab researches the intersection of microbiome ecology and host physiology, integrating microbiology, immunology, animal models, and computational approaches to investigate interactions between the microbiome and the host. The role offers an opportunity to contribute to a collaborative research environment spanning clinical cohorts and mechanistic studies, combining laboratory operations with hands-on experimental research.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Biological or Natural Science and at least 5 years of relevant research experience, or a related Master’s degree with at least 3 years of relevant research experience.
Knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
Strong ability to analyze complex visual data in a quantitative and objective manner.
Ability to work in a team environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with anaerobic microbiology, including cultivation of obligate anaerobes.
Experience working with mouse models in microbiome or immunology research; gnotobiotic mouse experience is a plus.
Experience with immunological techniques such as multiparameter flow cytometry, ELISA, or cytokine analysis.
Familiarity with microbiome research methods, including 16S rRNA gene sequencing, shotgun metagenomics, or sequencing library preparation.
Experience with laboratory organization, equipment maintenance, inventory management, and coordination of day-to-day laboratory operations.
Experience maintaining laboratory records, developing standard operating procedures, or supporting regulatory and laboratory safety requirements.

Responsibilities

Independently design and perform multiple complex laboratory experiments.
Identify and use software relevant to experiments and equipment.
Interpret data, form conclusions, and determine next steps independently.
Maintain accurate records and record results according to established laboratory, sponsor, and University protocols.
Review literature, publications, and grants relevant to assigned projects.
Perform in-depth data analysis and mathematical computations.
Maintain a detailed laboratory notebook according to laboratory practice.
Compile and analyze data and present it in a publication-suitable format according to PI specifications.
Present findings at laboratory or group meetings and other forums.
Maintain laboratory supply levels and place orders as needed.
Manage laboratory equipment service contracts and coordinate equipment maintenance.
Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, and related materials.
Monitor and enforce safety regulations and infection control standards.
Identify and write standard operating procedures in compliance with EHS regulations specific to the laboratory.
Train on IACUC, EHS, and radiation safety protocols.
Comply with applicable state, federal, University, and sponsor policies and agreements.
Manage daily laboratory operations, including personnel, procedures, and projects.
Identify problems and challenges, propose resolutions, and implement appropriate solutions.
Develop new protocols or modify defined protocols as necessary, with PI approval.
Prioritize and perform several tasks or procedures simultaneously with attention to detail.
Perform duties and experiments independently.
Mentor and train laboratory personnel on proper laboratory conduct and techniques.
Manage laboratory spending in accordance with budget guidelines provided by the PI or designee.
Assist with budget and operational aspects of grant and contract proposals.
Negotiate with vendors to optimize available resources.
Contribute independently to writing sections of manuscripts and grants.
Direct the activities of research support staff.
Perform other duties as required.