Research Technician

Tufts University • Medford, MA

8d

About The Position

The Gnecco Lab centers at the interface of reproductive biology and tissue engineering to understand the inflammatory origins of uterine function and disease pathogenesis. Projects involve the use of primary human samples and 3D in vitro organoid model systems coupled to tissue clearing imaging to perform innovative and translational research. We use these tissue engineering approaches to dissect the tissue microenvironment with the goal of elucidate the immune-endocrine mechanisms regulating uterine health. These projects involve interfacing with clinical collaborators, handling human patient specimens, and interacting with end-users of the laboratory’s approaches/technologies. We are interested in highly self-motivated and collaborative team members and value inclusivity in a creative working environment as a means to develop innovative solutions to critical biomedical problems. We value mentorship and want to support your work towards your long-term professional goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in bioengineering, biology, or related technical field
• At least two years' relevant experience in a research/development laboratory
• Strong experience with mammalian cell culture
• Strong experience with basic biochemical assays
• Familiarity with standard biology laboratory methods (microscopy, ELISAs, spectrophotometers, and other standard analytical equipment)
• Detail-oriented
• Excellent record keeping
• Good writing skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Good communication skills
• Ability to multitask
• High degree of initiative
• Strong organizational skills
• Strong time management skills
• Strong planning skills
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Curiosity
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary, and milestone-oriented environment
• Comfortable to handle human samples, including biosafety and HIPPA compliance

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience with 3D in vitro models
• Previous experience with biomaterials
• Previous experience with organoid culture
• Previous experience with synthesis and characterization of polymer materials

Responsibilities

• Develop a diverse range of 3D tissue models
• Learn, deploy, and develop technical protocols
• Maintain the lab’s 3D hydrogel biomaterial library, including characterization of reagents and gels using standard polymer science methods
• Assist with carrying out cell culture (tissue isolation, passaging, freezing both of 2D/3D cultures), bioassays, and analysis
• Lead the maintenance and organization of the tissue biobank including the logistics, handling, and tissue processing for cell culture
• Prepare and maintain hydrogel biomaterials
• Perform biochemical assays of tissue performance
• Conduct data analysis and interpretation
• Prepare progress reports
• Assist in daily/weekly lab maintenance tasks in support of a range of tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and tissue imaging studies
• Assist in the tissue processing pipeline from clinical collaborators
• Participate in lab duties relating to the shared lab space
• Cell culture support- expansion and maintenance, media preparation, cell bank organization
• Routine upkeep of the biomaterial bank including peptide reconstitution and characterization
• Assist in order and stock levels
• Make lab stock solutions for assays and culture medium
• Autoclave trash
• Serve as waste pick-up coordinator
• Write-up and update protocols of general lab activities
• Provide specific experiment assistance as needed

What This Job Offers

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