Research Assistant I Lab

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Tuition assistance and reimbursement

Job summary

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is seeking a research-support professional for the Duraisingh lab within the Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases.

You will assist with maintaining cell lines, generating erythroid cells, and producing materials for omics studies, supporting a range of parasite-host interaction projects. The role requires basic lab duties, data collection, and collaboration with graduate students, postdocs, and senior scientists.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in biological sciences or equivalent with laboratory experience.
• Experience with basic molecular and cellular biology techniques preferred.
• Experience with cell culture and flow cytometry is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support research focusing on parasite-host interactions.
• Maintain immortalized erythroid cell lines and generate erythroid cells.
• Generate material for omics and perform laboratory experiments.

Skills

Biological sciences

Mammalian cell culture

Flow cytometry

Data analysis

Independent experimentation

Education

BA/BS in biological sciences

College background in sciences

Tools

Flow cytometry

Biosafety level 2+

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 T.H. Chan School of Public Health?

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting‑edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission‑driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work‑life balance are valued.

Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values, our Principles of Citizenship, and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives.

Job Description

Job Summary

The Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases (IID) was formed in 1997 when the Departments of Cancer Biology, Molecular and Cellular Toxicology and Tropical Public Health were merged. The department focuses on the biological, immunological, epidemiological and ecological aspects of viral, bacterial and protozoan diseases of animals and humans, including the vectors that transmit infectious agents. Research in the department's 14 laboratories is primarily focused on diseases of developing countries.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

As part of the Duraisingh laboratory, the successful candidate will be responsible to support our research focusing on parasite and host interactions. To learn more about the lab, please visit: https://sites.sph.harvard.edu/duraisingh-lab/

Responsibilities will primarily include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assisting with maintenance of immortalized erythroid cell lines
• Assisting with generation of erythroid cells
• Generating material for omics
• Performing laboratory experiments using specific techniques and equipment
• Collecting project data and reporting experimental results

The candidate will also be responsible for the following:

• Basic laboratory duties (such as media preparation)
• Other duties as assigned (such as ordering of supplies)

The candidate will interact with a large variety of other staff and researchers including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and senior scientists, as required for each responsibility. Some experience of parasite or mammalian cell culture is an advantage, as is general experience working with biosafety level 2+ pathogens.

PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of July 30, 2027 with the possibility for extension.

PLEASE NOTE: The finalist will be required to pass an occupational health screening.

PLEASE NOTE: Scheduling flexibility is needed on an occasional basis, such as extended shift hours on evenings, weekend and holiday closures as needed.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• 1+ year of relevant experience required; a combination of education and experience may be considered

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• BA/BS in biological sciences with experience in basic molecular and cellular biology
• College background or equivalent experience, preferably in biological sciences
• Experience with cell culture and flow cytometry is desirable but not required
• Some experience of mammalian cell culture and/or lentiviral genetics is an advantage as is general experience working with biosafety level 2+ pathogens
• Experience with decision making and independently conducting experiments and analyzing data is also preferable
• Basic laboratory techniques including cell culture in biosafety cabinets, creating standard solutions, dilutions, use of micropipettes and other common laboratory apparatus
• Attention to detail, organizational skills in managing data
• Strong communication skills, interpersonal skills and works well in a group setting

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: July 30, 2027
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country!

• The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions.
• Harvard University requires pre‑employment reference checks and background screenings.
• This position has a 90 day orientation and review period. The O&R period will be waived for any internal Harvard employee transfers.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC‑recommended vaccines.

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 052. 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.