Research Lab Tech I RESEARCH NEUROLOGY HV

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Venkatesh Lab (www.venkateshlab.org) is seeking a highly motivated lab technician to join our pioneering research efforts in the field of cancer neuroscience. Our lab’s exciting new area of research lies at the intersection of cancer biology and neuroscience – we focus on characterizing and therapeutically targeting electrical components of disease pathophysiologies. By improving our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in neuron-cancer communication and circuit formation in and outside of the brain, the Venkatesh Lab aims to harness the systems level microenvironmental dependencies of tumor growth to develop innovative therapeutic treatments. Responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required
Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment
Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.
Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.
Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges.
Bachelor’s degree in biology or related life sciences major.
1-2 years of experience outside of coursework required.
Demonstrated experience with tissue culture and aseptic technique.
Experience with rodent handling, husbandry, and animal experiments.
Must have demonstrated experience in molecular techniques, particularly cloning and transfection.
Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot protocols and experiments for various projects in the lab.
Must be able to maintain detailed and accurate laboratory notebooks documenting experimental procedures, results, and observations.
Compile, analyze, and present data in a timely fashion.

Nice To Haves

1-2 years preferred

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures.
Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed.
Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results.
Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods.
Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports.
Operate specialized instruments such as sliding microtomes, vibrotomes, and cryostats to prepare tissue sections for various organs.
Perform routine cell culture techniques, including cell passage, freezing, and thawing.
Analyze and quantify microscopy results to support project goals and reporting.
Troubleshoot and perform molecular biology techniques such as virus production, primer design, molecular cloning, and transfection.
Perform techniques such as Western blotting, viral transduction, next-generation sequencing (NGS).
Assist in microscopy imaging, including confocal and fluorescence microscopy.
Learn, master, and implement surgical techniques commonly used in preclinical models.
Optimize and troubleshoot immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and in situ hybridization protocols.
Responsible for the maintenance and care of laboratory mice including breeding, weaning, ear tagging, and allocation to lab members.
Maintain up to date mouse records and reports on mouse census to supervisors.
Necropsy and tissue harvesting from various mouse models.
Maintain a clean and well-organized work environment, ensuring proper storage of reagents, cells, and samples.
Manage laboratory inventories, including ordering reagents and maintaining stock levels of commonly used consumables.
Receive, store, and document reagents/packages.
Assist in ensuring compliance with institutional biosafety, animal care, and chemical safety regulations.
Help maintain accurate lab documentation, including protocols, experimental records, and safety data sheets.