Technical Assistant I - Hrvatin Lab (Relocation Assistance Available!)

MIT Whitehead Institute•Cambridge, MA

23h•Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for an entry-level research assistant (Technical Assistant I) to join our team. The position will involve performing extensive tissue culture work, work with lentiviruses, medium throughput chemical screening, metabolomic and transcriptomic assays, bench level experiments (molecular biology) as well as work with mice and hamsters. You will have the opportunity to work independently on a research project as well as collaborate with members of the lab. Responsibilities include advancing the scientific research objectives of the lab, analyzing experimental data, addressing methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and reporting data to supervisor. HRVATIN LAB RESEARCH To survive extreme environments, many animals have evolved the ability to profoundly decrease metabolic rate and body temperature and enter states of dormancy, such as torpor and hibernation. Our laboratory studies the mysteries of how animals and their cells initiate, regulate, and survive these adaptations. Specifically, we focus on investigating: 1) how the brain regulates torpor (in mice) and hibernation (in hamsters), 2) how cells and genomes of different organisms adapt to these states, and 3) whether inducing these states can slow down tissue damage, cancer progression, and even aging. Our long-term goal is to explore potential applications of inducing similar states of “suspended animation” in human cells and tissues. This position offers a unique opportunity to play a critical role in this exciting work that promises fundamental new insights into mammalian physiology as informs potential medical applications. Our lab has an exceptional track record of training young scientists. This position is ideal for highly organized, motivated and hard-working individuals seeking to launch their career as future scientists in academia or industry.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology or a field directly related to the work
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Strong organizational skills required
Appropriate communications skills required
Curiosity
Work ethic
Organization
Ability to learn new techniques
Excellent track record in college

Nice To Haves

Proficient in basic lab techniques and principles of molecular biology preferred
Knowledge of various scientific databases and publications preferred
Experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular biology techniques, or animal work is preferred
Preference will be given to candidates who can commit for two years
Prior research experience is desirable, though not essential
Demonstrated abilities in basic laboratory techniques helpful, but not required
Exposure to applicable computer technologies, including specific software applications, may be required

Responsibilities

Advancing the scientific research objectives of the lab
Analyzing experimental data
Addressing methodological problems in experimental protocols and results
Reporting data to supervisor
Design and conduct experiments
Document, compile, and assist in interpreting experimental data
Report data to supervisor in oral and written reports
Present in lab meetings
Consult scientific literature
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment to complete investigations
Prepare, order, and maintain stocks of necessary reagents, solutions and supplies
May work with vendors to address equipment, reagent, or supply issues
Other tasks as required or assigned