Research Associate II - The Vector Engineering Lab

Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 58,000 - 80,667; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

Job summary

A leading research institute in Cambridge is seeking a Research Associate to assist in developing next-generation AAV vectors for neuroscience research. The role involves performing various molecular biology techniques and in vivo studies on neurodegenerative diseases. Ideal candidates hold a degree in a biology-related field and have hands-on experience with lab techniques and animal handling. This position offers competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Experience handling mice or other small laboratory animals.
• Hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Culturing human embryonic stem cell-derived neurons.
• Executing in vitro and in vivo studies.
• Attendance and presentation at team meetings.

Skills

DNA and RNA extraction

Molecular biology techniques

Handling laboratory animals

Cell culture

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

B.S. or M.S. in biology-related field

Tools

PCR

Fluorescence microscopy

Electronic lab notebooks

Job description

Overview

The Vector Engineering laboratory led by Ben Deverman is looking for a Research Associate to join our team. We are a fast-paced and mission-driven collaborative laboratory focused on developing next-generation adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors for neuroscience research and for CNS gene therapies. In this role, you will assist with the execution of in vitro and in vivo studies aimed at developing a brain-wide gene therapy for a genetically defined neurodegenerative disease. Opportunities for presenting your work to your colleagues will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Culturing human embryonic stem cell-derived neurons
• Molecular biology techniques such as DNA and RNA purification, PCR, qPCR, and analysis of proteins
• IP and IV injections in rodents
• Tissue sectioning and cryo-sectioning
• Immunohistochemistry staining of sectioned tissues and fluorescence microscopy
• Extraction and purification of RNA and DNA from mammalian tissue samples
• Organization, tracking, and storing of samples in house and with external repositories
• Consulting colleagues and the scientific literature to develop professional expertise and support ongoing and future projects
• Troubleshooting to resolve problems and participate in new technology evaluation and implementation
• Maintenance of meticulous records and documentation, compilation and analysis of experimental data
• Ordering and maintenance of stocks of reagents and supplies
• Attendance and presentation at team meetings to share results, plan projects and experiments, and ensure that projects support team goals

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in a biology related field
• Experience handling mice or other small laboratory animals
• Hands-on experience with extracting DNA and/or RNA from cells or tissues
• Foundational knowledge of (and some hands on experience with) PCR and other common molecular biology techniques
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture
• Experience working in a BL2 or BL2+ environment
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, electronic lab notebook practices and careful attention to detail
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills and attention to detail
• Strong work ethic, reliability, and desire to work in a team

Publications To Review

• https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adm8386
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-03466-w
• https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado7082
• https://www.nature.com/articles/nbt.3440
• https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.3002112
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-50555-y
• https://www.nature.com/articles/nrd.2018.110
• https://www.nature.com/articles/nn.4593
• https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0225206
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s44161-022-00046-4

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Range: $58,000.00/yr - $80,667.00/yr. The expected base pay range for this position as listed above is based on a 40 hour per week schedule. Actual compensation will vary based on factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, education, qualifications, and other factors permissible by law. The role includes a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and health savings accounts; at least 13 paid holidays; winter closure; paid time off; parental and family care leave; and an employee assistance program, among other Broad benefits.

Equal Opportunity

The Broad Institute is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. Should you need a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact [e-mail] for assistance.