Research Lab Tech II

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

1d•$24 - $39•Onsite

About The Position

Technical Research Assistant II The Technical Research Assistant II 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 incumbent will drive an independent research project while also supporting laboratory operations and collaborating with other laboratory personnel. This position combines focused project work with broader technical responsibilities. The research project may be substantially in vitro- or in vivo-based or combine in vitro and in vivo approaches. This position requires a Master's degree in biological sciences and at least 1 year of post-Master's or 2 years of post-baccalaureate (pre-Master's) research experience. The successful candidate will demonstrate growing scientific independence, strong technical skills, problem-solving ability, and commitment to rigorous experimental documentation.

Requirements

Master's degree (M.Sc.) in Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field (required).
Minimum 1 year of post-Master's or 2 years of post-baccalaureate (pre-Master's) research experience in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, or related laboratory work.
Demonstrated ability to work semi-independently on research tasks.
Mammalian cell culture experience required.
Mammalian cell culture skills including aseptic technique, routine maintenance, and quality control.
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.

Nice To Haves

Epithelial cell lines and/or transwell culture systems preferred.
Experience with mouse models preferred.
Experience with transwell culture systems and barrier function assays (TEER, permeability) highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Lead 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 with guidance from the PI, developing increasing independence over time.
Maintain and work with epithelial cell lines (e.g., Caco-2, MDCK, T84) and/or primary intestinal epithelial stem cells, including transwell culture systems and barrier function assays.
Troubleshoot experimental challenges and propose solutions with input from senior 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, including 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, genotyping, and functional assays.
Assist with mouse colony management, including routine husbandry, breeding support, and record-keeping.
Maintain laboratory reagents, equipment, and shared resources in good working order.
Help train new laboratory members in cell culture and basic molecular techniques.
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, balancing your independent project with team responsibilities.
Assist with preparation of figures, data summaries, and methods sections for manuscripts.