Research Lab Technician - Neuroscience

Massachusetts Eye and Ear; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Massachusetts Eye and Ear in Boston is seeking a Research Assistant to join a neuroscience lab, working under the principal investigator. You will handle live mice, prepare tissues, and perform molecular assays including in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry.

You will also prepare reagents, conduct gel electrophoresis, and acquire images with epifluorescence and confocal microscopes. Opportunities to apply R or Python for gene expression analyses exist, supporting graduate-level study

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree related field required.
• 1-2 years lab experience preferred.
• Experience with tissue handling and standard molecular biology techniques is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Handle live mice, set up crosses and collect tissue biopsies.
• Dissect and process cochlear and brain tissues for analysis.
• Detect mRNA and proteins via in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry.
• Prepare buffers and reagents for molecular biology.
• Perform gel electrophoresis and image using microscopy.
• Assist in data handling and organization.

Skills

Wet lab experience

Data analysis

Protein detection

Molecular biology

Education

Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology or related field

Tools

Epifluorescence microscopy

Confocal microscopy

Job description

Site: Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryMass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.Job SummarySummaryResponsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data.Candidates who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree have a grace period of six months from their hire date (up to 1 year if starting per diem) to provide degree equivalency verification.Does this position require Patient Care?NoEssential Functions-Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures.-Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines.-Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed.-Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results.-Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods.-Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports.QualificationsEducationBachelor's Degree Related Field of Study requiredCan this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?YesLicenses and CredentialsExperiencePrior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment 1-2 years preferredKnowledge, Skills and Abilities- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.- Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.- Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.- Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges.Additional Job Details (if applicable)We are a neuroscience laboratory at Mass Eye and Ear/Harvard Medical School studying developmental mechanisms that underlie generation of functionally diverse neurons in the mouse auditory system. To that end, we utilize a range of approaches, including advanced microscopy, single-cell genomics, molecular genetics, and machine learning. More information on our research program can be found at https://shrestha.meei.harvard.eduJob DescriptionWe are looking for a Research Assistant to participate in various projects in the laboratory. Working under direct supervision of the principal investigator, the candidate will be responsible for:1) handling live mice to set up crosses, wean litters, collect tissue biopsies for genotyping, and inject various drugs2) extracting, dissecting, processing and sectioning cochlear and brain tissues from euthanized mice3) detecting mRNA and proteins of interest by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry4) preparing buffers and reagents for molecular biology5) performing gel electrophoresis6) acquiring images using epifluorescence and confocal microscopy7) assisting in general laboratory maintenance, including setting up of equipment, and organizing reagents and supplies.In addition, opportunities will be available to conduct gene expression analysis using R or Python in collaborative projects. Offering a broad exposure to standard experimental and analytical approaches employed in a molecular neuroscience lab, this position is ideal for individuals seeking to pursue graduate studies in biomedical sciences or medicine.QualificationsBachelor's degree in neuroscience, genetics, biology or a related discipline with at least six months of experience in a wet lab environment is required. Comfort with handling live mice and performing procedures on anesthetized or euthanized mice is required. Demonstrated abilities in relevant laboratory techniques preferred. May be required to work with hazardous materials. May occasionally be required to lift, move, and transport laboratory equipment. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, has excellent organizations skills, can multi-task efficiently, and loves to learn new concepts and techniques related to studies of the nervous system.Remote TypeOnsiteWork Location243-245 Charles StreetScheduled Weekly Hours40Employee TypeRegularWork ShiftDay (United States of America)Pay Range$21.00 - $29.01/HourlyGrade5At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience if applicable, education, certifications and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package. In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable and recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite you to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of your potential compensation and benefits package.EEO Statement:5110 Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran’s Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.Mass General Brigham Competency FrameworkAt Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership “looks like” by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.