Research Scientist, Sr

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Principle Investigator, the Senior Research Scientist performs a variety of complex research experiments and laboratory research on topics pertinent to the interests of the research programs of the laboratory. This role involves working under limited supervision in carrying out complex research assignments, performance of experiments, and recording of results. Key activities include creation, amplification, maintenance, and quality control of recombinant adenovirus and adeno-associated virus vector stocks, tissue histology, Western blots, qPCR, RT-PCR, PCR, work with recombinant DNA including mutagenesis, and recording of experimental results. The scientist will also be responsible for the growth and maintenance of cell cultures, preparation of reagents for experiments, and may assist in procedures on experimental animals. The role requires proficiency and independence in molecular methods, with the ability to teach these methods to technicians and trainees. Collaboration with the P.I. and other lab members for experiment interpretation is essential. The scientist will utilize new and innovative research techniques, adapt new assays for lab use, evaluate technique adequacy, and test new procedures. Additionally, the position includes lab management duties such as ordering and maintaining supplies and equipment, maintaining records of grant expenditures and purchases, developing and implementing institution-required safety plans, handling other regulatory obligations of the laboratory, and performing other necessary paperwork, as well as supervising other lab technicians.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a Biological Science, or equivalent degree.
7 years of research experience.
Familiarity with general laboratory procedures.
Expertise in specific procedures and instrumentation necessary to complete specific research programs.
Current knowledge of pertinent literature.
Oral and written communication and presentation skills.
Ability to travel to off-site locations.

Nice To Haves

Creation, amplification, maintenance and quality control of recombinant adenovirus and adeno-associated virus vector stocks.
Tissue histology.
Western blots.
qPCR.
RT-PCR.
PCR.
Work with recombinant DNA including mutagenesis.
Growth and maintenance of cell cultures.
Preparation of reagents for experiments.
Assisting in procedures on experimental animals.
Proficiency and independence in molecular methods.
Ability to teach methods to technicians and trainees.
Interpreting experiments with the P.I. and other lab members.
Utilizing new and innovative research techniques.
Adapting new assays for use in the lab.
Evaluating the adequacy of techniques and testing new procedures.
Lab management duties including ordering and maintaining supplies and equipment.
Maintaining records of grant expenditures and purchases.
Developing and implementing institution-required safety plans.
Handling other regulatory obligations of the laboratory and other necessary paperwork.
Supervision of other lab technicians.

Responsibilities

Design and implement experiments designed to further ongoing research projects, in consultation with the principal investigator.
Organize and analyze data acquired in the course of research projects.
Write manuscripts and grant applications.
Design and implement research projects in the laboratory.
Responsible for data acquisition, data analysis, and presentation of research results.
Train and supervise junior lab personnel, ensuring staff is trained in current methodology and safety procedures in the laboratory.
Prepare and present data for publication in public forums.
Assist in the preparation of grant applications and other research proposals.
Provide assistance in the general operation of the laboratory.
Participate regularly in laboratory meetings.
Stay current with the literature and regularly leads discussions of new reports pertinent to ongoing and proposed projects.
Perform other duties as required.