Research Lab Technician I

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision of the Principal Investigator and in accordance with established hospital policies and procedures, a position is open for an independent, self-motivated, full-time Technical Research Assistant in the Department of Pathology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Our laboratory identifies blood-based biomarkers for early detection of complications of common pregnancy conditions (e.g., preeclampsia, premature rupture of membranes), and develops low-cost, simple diagnostics suited to low- and middle-income countries to help identify high-risk pregnancies. The candidate will conduct research utilizing ultrasensitive single molecule array (Simoa) and Molecular On-bead Signal Amplification for Individual Counting (MOSAIC) assays to measure biomarkers that conventional methods cannot detect. Specific applications may include the characterization of biomarker concentrations in blood or other bio-fluids using assays developed using existing Simoa/MOSAIC technology or the development of new diagnostic techniques. A successful candidate will accurately prepare reagents, execute protein detection assays, and handle biological samples. The Technical Research Assistant will work as part of a research team, under general supervision, carrying out pre-outlined experiments and designing new experiments independently when needed.

Requirements

BA/BS in biological/physical science required.
At least one year of lab research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, or similar is preferred (experience with nucleic acid analysis and/or protein biochemistry).
Experience with one or more of the following is advantageous, but not required: ELISA, Human subject research and/or BSL2 practices, Programming experience (Python or R) for computational analysis of large biological datasets, Programming of liquid handling robots.
Sound analytical and organizational skills
High degree of computer literacy.
Requires good oral and written communication skills
Ability to logically and effectively structure tasks and set priorities
Ability to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot solutions.
Ability to accurately document, analyze, and interpret experimental data.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Strong attention to detail and ability to perform quantitative laboratory procedures accurately.

Nice To Haves

Experience with nucleic acid analysis and/or protein biochemistry.
Experience with one or more of the following is advantageous, but not required: ELISA, Human subject research and/or BSL2 practices, Programming experience (Python or R) for computational analysis of large biological datasets, Programming of liquid handling robots.

Responsibilities

Independently performs routine and non-routine experiments that are moderate to complex. Experimental work may include preparing binding reagents and evaluating binding reagent viability in the assay platform, optimizing, validating, and modifying assays, screening biological samples, and preparing special materials.
Operates the Simoa HD-X and MOSAIC instruments to analyze patient-derived blood, plasma, or serum from pregnancy cohorts.
Calculates, transcribes, and analyzes data using moderate to advanced statistical techniques.
Performs literature searches, prepares presentations and progress reports, and assists in preparing manuscripts for publication. Corresponds and communicates progress professionally with collaborators and scientific community.
In collaboration with PI or Research Manager, establishes new and modifies existing research techniques.
Coordinates schedule of tests and procedures. Documents experimental work accurately and in detail.
Coordinates lab activities such as bio-safety trainings.
Assists in the orientation and training of new staff.
Orders supplies and maintains laboratory inventory.
All other duties as assigned.