Research Technician: Nicolson Lab

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute•Boston, MA

About The Position

The Research Technician will assist scientists in performing scientific research, development and/or clinical tasks of varying complexity. In general, they will assist in the set up, operation and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations and calculating and recording results. Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals. Are you a creative and hardworking individual who wants to do research in an interdisciplinary, fun, and supportive laboratory setting? The Nicolson lab is seeking a highly motivated, bachelor’s level graduate who will support our laboratory as a Research Technician in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Despite significant advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, there is still a need to develop more refined, molecularly targeted approaches that can diagnose and treat cancer in a personalized manner. The Nicolson lab at Dana-Farber is interested in tackling these challenges through the development of imaging technologies and radiotheranostic agents for the improved detection, evaluation, and treatment of cancer. Our research spans diverse disciplines, including nano-, radio-, and synthetic- chemistry, molecular imaging, instrumentation, radiobiology, bioengineering, and translational cancer research. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic learner seeking a dynamic scientific environment where they can advance their skills in biomedical research. This position is intended to develop the experimental skills of the Research Technician and provide our researchers with experimental support for current projects, in particular small animal in vivo imaging and the development of mouse models. The technician will be trained by the PI, postdocs, and senior technicians. They will work closely with peers in the laboratory and in turn will receive training and career mentoring from Dr. Nicolson and senior lab members. A two-year commitment is preferred.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a STEM subject (or equivalent). Applications are also welcome from those graduating in 2026.
Technically meticulous when conducting experiments.
Highly organized in record-keeping.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as a team member is a necessity.

Nice To Haves

Prior research experience in areas including molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic chemistry, radiochemistry, radiobiology, molecular imaging, or mouse model development (beyond a classroom setting) is ideal but not essential.

Responsibilities

Perform standard experimental procedures as assigned (i.e. – pipetting, cell and tissue culture, PCR, histology, microscopy, immunoblots etc.).
Manage lab reagents, chemicals, and sample database.
Demonstrate the ability to perform and support experiments both independently and in collaboration with other scientists in the lab.
Analyze experimental data meticulously, interpreting results to generate comprehensive reports and summaries of findings.
Take ownership of the day-to-day planning of own experiments.
Strong interest in translational cancer research.
Willingness to contribute to co-author publications.
Maintain a meticulous notebook documenting all work-related activities for thorough record-keeping.
Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and commitment by staying up-to-date with relevant literature and research publications.
Be willing to work with animal models.
Be responsible for purchasing equipment and materials for the laboratory.