Research Technician I

Mass General Brigham•Boston, MA

7d•$21 - $29•Hybrid

About The Position

We are designing and prototyping technologies to automate the cryopreservation of fruit flies (Drosophila). This highly interdisciplinary project brings together biology, chemistry, and engineering to address an important challenge in biomedical research: developing a robust and scalable approach for the long-term preservation of widely used genetic model organisms. The work offers a unique translational opportunity to help advance a laboratory cryopreservation protocol into an automated platform that could enable its broader adoption and use. The project is based within the Sandlin lab at the Center for Engineering in Medicine & Surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital, an interdisciplinary research environment that brings together engineers, scientists, and clinicians to develop and translate new technologies. The successful candidate will work closely with our staff across multiple aspects of the project, including the application of biological assays, development and testing of novel cryopreservation chemistries, and design, prototyping, and evaluation of a device for protocol optimization. Responsibilities also include maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data. This position is well suited for a candidate interested in hands-on, interdisciplinary research at the interface of biology and engineering. Candidates who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree have a grace period of six months from their hire date (up to 1 year if starting per diem) to provide degree equivalency verification.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required
Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment; 1-2 years preferred
Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.
Interest in interdisciplinary research spanning biology, chemistry, and engineering.
Ability to learn and apply biological assays and experimental techniques and to contribute to the development and optimization of new protocols.
Comfort with hands-on assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of experimental equipment and prototype devices.
Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.
Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience with Drosophila or other insect model systems a plus.
Prior engineering coursework, research experience, or hands-on prototyping experience a plus.
Experience with biological assays, microscopy, solution preparation, or experimental instrumentation a plus.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures.
Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines.
Perform biological assays and contribute to the development and evaluation of new experimental protocols and cryopreservation chemistries.
Assist with the design, prototyping, testing, and iterative improvement of devices and experimental systems used to automate the cryopreservation protocol.
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed.
Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results.
Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods.
Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports.