Laboratory Technician

Harvard University; Cambridge (AL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parental leave

Day-one health insurance

Tuition assistance and reimbursement

Commuter benefits

Job summary

Harvard University is seeking a laboratory professional to support the Extavour Lab's developmental biology research in Cambridge. The role involves preparing samples from Drosophila specimens, performing molecular biology tasks, recording results, and maintaining cultures, with a strong emphasis on accuracy and teamwork.

The position is a one-year term with potential for extension based on funding, typically 40 hours per week in a lab/office setting at a Harvard-designated location.

Qualifications

• College background in science or biology.
• At least one year of experience in Drosophila laboratory work.
• Must follow good laboratory practices and keep records.

Responsibilities

• Prepares samples for analysis and diagnosis, including dissecting and staining insect tissues and mounting slides.
• Performs molecular biology and developmental genetics tests and procedures.
• Records results according to lab record-keeping guidelines.
• Operates scientific equipment with precision.
• Maintains insect cultures, including Drosophila stock keeping.

Skills

Drosophila lab work

Lab techniques

Record keeping

Independent & team work

Education

Bachelor's degree in science

Job description

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary

The Extavour Lab is a collection of developmental biologists, molecular biologists, geneticists, cell biologists, zoologists, and evolutionary biologists. Our shared interest is in the evolution of the genetic mechanisms employed during early animal embryogenesis to specify cell fate, development, and differentiation. We focus primarily on the evolution and development of reproductive systems, including both the germ line and the somatic components of the gonad.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Prepares samples for analysis and diagnosis, performing duties including but not limited to dissecting and staining insect tissues, mounting slides, and preparing complex chemical solutions and media.
• Performs molecular biology and developmental genetics experimental tests and procedures.
• Records results of experiments according to laboratory record keeping guidelines.
• Operates scientific equipment, requiring a high degree of skill and/or precision.
• Maintain insect cultures and other experimental matter, requiring knowledge of Drosophila melanogaster stock keeping.
• Performs related job duties as required.

Working Conditions

Lab and office setting.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications (Required)

College background in science or biology. At least one year of experience in Drosophila laboratory work required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred)

Candidates should have a bachelor's degree in a discipline of science/biology. Candidates must understand and follow good laboratory practices, including record keeping. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented, responsible, dependable, organized, with a good sense of judgment. Must have excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Ability to work independently and with a team is important.

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: This is a one year term position with the possibility of extension based on funding.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information:

  *All formal written offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 049. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.