Research Lab Technician II – Microbiome

Mass General Brigham • Boston, MA

20h • Onsite

About The Position

The Xavier Lab is seeking a Research Technician to contribute to studies of the gut microbiome and its role in human health and disease. Current projects investigate the ecological and functional properties of intestinal microbial communities, mechanisms governing host–microbe interactions, and the development of experimental approaches to understand how commensal bacteria influence inflammation, metabolism, and colonization resistance. Recent work from the lab has linked gut microbial metabolism to cholesterol and cardiovascular disease risk in the Framingham Heart Study (PMID: 38569543), revealed how microbiota-driven immune responses shape intestinal biology (PMID: 39567686), and identified microbial communities that suppress pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae colonization (PMID: 39294375). These studies combine microbial cultivation, genomics, and host biology to understand mechanisms underlying human disease. This position provides training in microbiology, microbial ecology, anaerobic culturing, next-generation sequencing, and host–microbe interaction research. The successful candidate will have opportunities to contribute intellectually to projects, present findings at lab meetings, and participate in manuscript preparation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required
• Previous Research Lab Experience 1-2 years required
• Analytical skills and ability to resolve technical problems.
• Ability to interpret acceptability of data results.
• Strong Computer skills.
• Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies.
• Strong interest in hands-on microbiology and microbiome research, particularly the cultivation and characterization of anaerobic gut bacteria.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and capable of troubleshooting experimental challenges independently.

Nice To Haves

• Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? Yes

Responsibilities

• Carries out a broad range of technically advanced research activities and procedures.
• Evaluates conclusions and has considerable latitude to modify or devise methods and techniques as necessary to achieve desired results.
• Typically supervises technical and sometimes administrative elements of the research unit.
• Executes protocols of non-routine experiments.
• Assists PI with determining the most suitable methodology.
• Performs basic design and modification of protocols.
• Calculates, transcribes, and analyzes data.
• Prepares and presents reports.
• Organizes and summarizes acquired data using scientific and Statistical Techniques.
• Participates in the design of experiments or field work.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits
• Career advancement opportunities
• Differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable
• Recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level