Technical Associate I, Langer Lab

MIT•Cambridge, MA

About The Position

The Technical Associate I will join the Langer Lab at the Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research and contribute to a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team developing biocompatible PLGA- and lipid-based nanoparticle therapeutics for medical applications. The role includes formulating and characterizing lipid nanoparticles, analyzing data, documenting and presenting research findings, and helping modify protocols and experimental strategies. The associate will also support presentations and grant or fellowship proposals, conduct literature reviews, and may co-author publications. Additional duties include training and coordinating lower-level staff and students, maintaining laboratory compliance and safety, managing inventory and procurement, preparing reagents, maintaining the laboratory, and contacting vendors for equipment service. This is a one-year term position with the possibility of extension.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences, chemical engineering, or a related field.
At least two years of specialized laboratory experience.
Commitment to producing accurate, high-quality protocols and data.
Ability to manage time independently and prioritize work to meet deadlines.
Ability to maintain a safe work environment and contribute in a multidisciplinary setting.
Willingness to learn new scientific tools and techniques quickly.
Experience with molecular and cell biology techniques, including reporter assays, cell culture, and pipetting.
Experience with animal work in vivo and/or mouse models.
Working knowledge of chemistry techniques.
Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
Discretion when handling confidential information and issues.

Nice To Haves

Experience with lipid nanoparticle formulation.

Responsibilities

Formulate lipid nanoparticles using microfluidics and ultrasonication.
Characterize nanoparticles using techniques such as DLS, encapsulation efficiency, and release kinetics.
Analyze data, including by applying statistical methodologies.
Document research results and findings and present data to supervisors.
Participate in modifying protocols and experimental strategies.
Research and provide content for presentations and grant or fellowship proposals.
Conduct literature reviews and potentially co-author articles or manuscripts.
Train and coordinate the work of lower-level staff, students, and temporary staff.
Maintain compliance with established standards, regulations, and laboratory procedures, including serving as an EHS Representative if required.
Manage laboratory inventory and procurement, prepare stock reagents, and maintain the laboratory.
Contact vendors for equipment service when needed.