Research Lab Tech I (Vavvas)

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data. This position performs routine laboratory tests and procedures as directed, with supervision. Candidates who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree have a grace period of six months from their hire date (up to 1 year if starting per diem) to provide degree equivalency verification.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in a 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.
Intermediate math skills and ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively before groups of employees.

Nice To Haves

1-2 years prior laboratory experience preferred.
Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? Yes

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.
Prepare samples, reagents, media, and buffers; label and store specimens according to protocols and safety regulations.
Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., microscopes, centrifuges, incubators, autoclaves, plate readers), including basic troubleshooting and calibration.
Perform routine experiments and assays (such as ELISA, PCR, cell or tissue culture, biochemical and molecular tests) following established SOPs.
Collect, record, and organize experimental data in lab notebooks or electronic systems, generating basic summaries or reports as needed.
Maintain lab organization by managing inventory, ordering supplies, and keeping workspaces clean and compliant with safety standards.
Follow biosafety, chemical safety, and waste-disposal procedures; use appropriate PPE and report any incidents or equipment problems.
Manage a small laboratory animal colony (e.g., mouse and rabbit), including setting up and monitoring breeding pairs, tracking pregnancies, and scheduling weaning to meet experimental needs.
Maintain accurate colony records (pedigrees, genotypes, births, deaths, experimental use) in electronic or paper databases to ensure regulatory compliance and experimental reproducibility.
Assist with basic technical procedures such as restraint, handling, tail biopsies for genotyping, and tissue collection, following IACUC-approved protocols and the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement).
Collaborate with and support principal investigators, postdocs, and students by preparing materials, assisting with experiments, and occasionally helping optimize protocols under supervision.