Research Assistant II Lab

Digitailor; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Tuition assistance

Retirement plans

Job summary

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston is seeking a Research Assistant for the Immunology and Infectious Diseases department.

The role focuses on parasite-vector interactions and malaria control, with duties spanning mosquito studies, molecular biology, and data collection in a dynamic research setting. The successful candidate will assist in developmental projects, manage lab workflows, and collaborate across teams while adhering to biosafety and ethical standards.

Qualifications

• Experience in a life sciences wet lab setting.
• Knowledge of host-vector/host-parasite interactions.
• Experience with parasite in vitro culturing or cell culture.
• Experience with biosafety level 2+ pathogens.

Responsibilities

• Malaria parasite culturing and mosquito infections.
• Molecular biology work such as nucleic acids isolation and qRT-PCR.
• Coordinate insectary space and staff; ensure safety compliance.
• Assist with EHS reporting and staff scheduling.

Skills

Molecular biology

Lab techniques

Microscopy

BSL-2 lab

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology

Tools

qRT-PCR

Fluorescence Microscopy

PCR machines

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) 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 laboratories is primarily focused on diseases of developing countries. Insects are a key gateway for spreading disease because of their ability to ferry pathogens from one host to another. These vectors represent important biological touch points, especially in malaria, and we are pursuing innovative research programs to illuminate their roles and identify strategies for future disease control. In Africa - where the majority of malaria deaths occur - the primary vector of disease is the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. The malaria parasite is transmitted through the bites of female mosquitoes, whose high reproductive capacity fuels malaria transmission. Therefore, targeting these insects (and the parasites they carry) holds great promise as a strategy for future disease control. The successful candidate will facilitate the research of the Department and of the Catterccia Laboratory, focusing on parasite-vector interactions. The Research Assistant will study mosquito reproduction and its interaction with malaria parasite transmission, as well as help in the development and testing of new chemical interventions for parasite control in mosquitoes with the ultimate goal of developing innovative malaria control strategies. Job-Specific

Responsibilities

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: Malaria parasite culturing, controlled mosquito infections and mosquito microdissection. Routine molecular biological work such as isolation of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR), protein analysis assays and immunofluorescence microscopy. Molecular cloning Fluorescence Microscopy Coordinates insectary space and staff. Assists with coordination of staff coverage, scheduling, maintenance, safety compliance and EHS reporting. Coordinates infection space and infection space users. Assists with EHS reporting, safety compliance and maintenance. Working knowledge of lab space. Shares duties of safety compliance, and EHS reporting. PLEASE NOTE: The Research Assistant must be able to work part time in a facility with constant temperature of 80 F and relative humidity of 70-80%. Handling of human-derived samples such as blood, as well as malaria parasites, is required in this position. PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of October 31, 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

2+ years of relevant experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered. Additional Qualifications and

Skills

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology or similar field strongly preferred Experience in a life sciences molecular biology wet lab environment preferred Knowledge/education/interest in host-vector/host-parasite interactions, public/global health, tropical infectious diseases and epidemiology preferred Experience in routine molecular biology methodologies preferred Experience with parasite in vitro culturing or cell culture Experience with microscopy and/or mosquito rearing General experience working with biosafety level 2+ pathogens Experience with high throughput assays Experience with basic laboratory techniques including creating standard solutions, dilutions, use of micropipettes and other common laboratory apparatuses preferred Experience with Environmental Health and Safety, BSL-2 and ACL-2 requirements preferred Strong attention to detail preferred Strong organizational and communication skills preferred Experience working in a diverse group setting (staff, researchers, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, senior scientists), both collaboratively but also independently preferred Capacity to quickly adapt to the needs of a fast-paced research environment/team preferred Additional Information Appointment End Date: October 31, 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 053. 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 . Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.