Research Lab Tech I

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

2d•$20 - $29•Onsite

About The Position

Technical Research Assistant I The Technical Research Assistant I will conduct research on epithelial barrier regulation, tight junction biology, and mucosal immune mechanisms in the gastrointestinal tract. Reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI), the Research Assistant will perform experiments designed in collaboration with the PI and other lab members. The degree of independence will be determined based on knowledge, technical ability, and understanding of the specific project. While performing research, the Research Assistant will also support aspects of laboratory operations. The research project may be substantially in vitro- or in vivo-based or combine in vitro and in vivo approaches. This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in biological or related sciences. Post-baccalaureate research experience is preferred. The successful candidate will demonstrate growing scientific independence, strong technical skills, problem-solving ability, and commitment to rigorous experimental documentation.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field is required.
Bench research experience is required, post-baccalaureate research is preferred.
Demonstrated ability to work semi-independently on research tasks required.
Mammalian cell culture skills including aseptic technique, routine maintenance, and quality control.
Experience with transwell culture systems and barrier function assays (TEER, permeability) highly desirable.
Molecular techniques (PCR/qPCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blot, flow cytometry basics).
Mouse handling, genotyping, and basic in vivo procedures (or strong willingness to learn).
Data analysis and visualization (GraphPad Prism, basic statistical analysis; familiarity with R or Python a plus).
Ability to follow complex protocols accurately and troubleshoot technical problems.
Good computer literacy and ability to learn new software and database systems.
Ability to balance multiple responsibilities and adjust priorities as needed.
Growing independence in experimental planning and execution with appropriate guidance.
Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail in documentation.
Good scientific reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Self-motivated with intellectual curiosity about the research.
Ability to take initiative within defined project scope while knowing when to seek guidance.
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.
Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment
1-2 years preferred

Nice To Haves

Mammalian cell culture experience preferred.
Epithelial cell lines and/or transwell culture systems preferred.
Experience with mouse models preferred.
Facility with computer aided quantitative morphometry preferred

Responsibilities

Drive a defined research project investigating epithelial barrier function, tight junction regulation, or mucosal immune responses using cell culture models and/or mouse models.
Design and perform experiments in collaboration with the PI.
Troubleshoot experimental challenges with input from PI and other laboratory personnel.
Analyze and interpret data; prepare figures and contribute to presentations and manuscripts.
Present findings at laboratory meetings and participate actively in scientific discussions.
Perform experiments and provide technical support for ongoing laboratory projects, including work with other lab members.
Maintain mammalian cell lines (e.g., Caco-2, MDCK, T84) and/or primary intestinal epithelial stem cells, including transwell culture systems and barrier function assays, routine passage, quality control, and cell banking.
Execute established techniques including transwell barrier assays, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and qPCR.
Execute mouse-based techniques as needed, including tissue collection, processing, histologic and immunofluorescence analysis, and functional assays.
Assist with mouse colony management, including routine husbandry, genotyping, breeding support, and record-keeping.
Maintain laboratory reagents, equipment, and shared resources in good working order.
Help train new laboratory members.
Maintain detailed, high-quality documentation of all experimental work in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
Contribute to maintenance of databases of mice, cell lines, reagents, and other materials.
Learn and help implement new experimental methods and protocols.
Participate actively in laboratory meetings and journal clubs, developing critical thinking and scientific communication skills.
Read relevant scientific literature to inform your project and stay current with the field.
Work collaboratively with other lab members.
Assist with preparation of figures, data summaries, and methods sections for manuscripts.