Research Scientist I - MDL

The Broad Institute•Cambridge, MA

1d•$88,000 - $124,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard is seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and experienced Research Scientist I to join the dynamic Methods Development Lab (MDL). The core mission of this role is the conception, development, validation, and scaled application of methods for ultra high-throughput single-cell multiomic sequencing technologies. The Research Scientist I will join a fast-paced, collaborative, and creative development team within the MDL, working to catalyze a transformational shift in single-cell sequencing and functional genomics capabilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for the end-to-end design and meticulous execution of novel multiomic methods development across various technology platforms. We are seeking a strategically minded individual to drive scientific innovation as a member of a joint experimental and computational scientist team, who prioritizes shared success and team-based problem solving. The role requires a candidate who can contribute significantly to methods innovation, execute complex and detailed experimentation, manage project timelines, and clearly communicate cutting-edge results to contribute substantively to high-impact publications.

Requirements

Ph.D. degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Bioengineering, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant, post-graduate work experience in an academic or industrial lab setting, OR a Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience.
Extensive, hands-on molecular biology expertise is mandatory, including proficiency in the execution of single-cell sequencing pipelines from sample collection/preparation through library construction and sequencing coordination.
Direct experience with commercial and/or custom single-cell platforms is required.
Proven expertise in single-cell RNA-seq and related sequencing modalities, with a strong, demonstrable emphasis on methods development, optimization, and multiomic approaches (CITE-seq, Perturb-seq).
Expertise in BSL2 cell culture, including the handling and processing of primary human/mouse cells and induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs).
Must be forward-thinking and highly innovative, with a nimble scientific/technical mind, able to rapidly develop and execute on creative solutions to technical roadblocks.
Strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Proven experience working effectively across experimental and computational research groups in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially the ability to clearly and concisely describe complex experimental methods and interpret results to diverse audiences (both scientific and non-scientific).
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.
Must be able to work onsite in Cambridge, MA, five days per week.

Nice To Haves

Experience with 10X Genomics, PIPseq is strongly preferred.
Direct experience in the design, execution, and data interpretation of single-cell functional genomic perturbation screens (e.g., Perturb-seq, CRISPR-based screens) is highly preferred.
Background in analyzing and interpreting complex sequencing data, including familiarity with relevant programming/scripting languages (R or Python) is preferred.
A publication history in peer-reviewed journals, especially those focused on novel sequencing methodologies, is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and rigorously optimize next-generation single-cell multiomic methods.
Establish and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for novel and established high-throughput sequencing assays to ensure reproducibility and scalability.
Troubleshoot complex molecular biology and sequencing workflows at every step, from sample preparation to library construction.
Execute complex and detailed experimentation on a daily basis, utilizing advanced molecular biology techniques.
Culture primary and established cell lines under BSL-2 conditions for methods validation and application studies.
Work closely with computational biologists to co-develop analytic methods for novel technologies, and interpret large-scale single-cell datasets to strategically inform experimental design iterations.
Collaborate seamlessly with the development team and external Broad Labs to successfully transition developed methods for use in large-scale biological applications.
Critically evaluate and present results, methodology, and insights clearly at weekly group and inter-departmental meetings.
Contribute substantively to the writing and preparation of high-impact manuscripts, grant proposals, and community resources.
Maintain deep and current knowledge of the single-cell and functional genomics fields, proactively identifying and evaluating new -omic technologies and tools for potential utility and fit within the Broad's capabilities.
Actively participate in the preparation of funding applications (federal, philanthropic, institutional, or industrial).
Seek intellectual property protection for inventions that are conceived of or developed while a member of the MDL.