Research Technician

Tufts University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 28,240 - 38,986; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Boston is seeking a laboratory technician to support research in microbial biology. The candidate will conduct routine experiments in a BSL-3 lab environment, analyze data, and assist with laboratory operations. A BS degree in science or engineering is required, along with skills in cell culturing, data analysis, and programming in Python or MATLAB. Attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential for this role, which focuses on cutting-edge research involving pathogenic microorganisms.

Qualifications

• Familiarity and experience in laboratory or analytical science.
• Prior experience with molecular biology and/or cell biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine experiments using various techniques.
• Record results and assist with data analysis.
• Help with laboratory operations and inventory management.

Skills

Cell culturing

Data analysis

Mathematical modeling

Machine learning

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

BS degree in science or engineering

Tools

Python

MATLAB

MS Office

Job description

Overview

The faculty in MBM are united by a common interest in the biology of microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) and the effects of microbes on human and animal hosts. The microbial pathogens program studies microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, with emphasis on rigorous analysis of these pathogens and the immune responses that restrict them. Program investigators direct detailed studies of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and eukaryotic parasites. Research topics include structural analysis of virus entry, viral evolution, viral oncogenes, intracellular bacterial pathogens, microorganisms that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, intracellular signaling, pathogen adhesion, genetic determinants involved in susceptibility to infection, vaccine development, and identification of novel antimicrobial agents.

What You’ll Do

• Conduct routine experiments:
  • Follow and design appropriate protocols or procedures to achieve results and test specific hypotheses.
  • Perform techniques such as cell culturing, drug treatment response profiling, mesoscale analysis, medium‑scale microscopy experiments, flow cytometry, and molecular biology procedures. (50%)
• Record results and assist with data analysis, including mathematical modeling and machine learning:
  • Keep accurate records of experiments and results.
  • Perform data interpretation and summarization including writing custom code and application of analysis algorithms.
  • Communicate findings to the principal investigator.
  • Interact scientifically with lab mates.
  • Analyze quantitative data, interpret results, and assist lab members in writing materials for publication and presentation. (45%)
• Help with laboratory operations:
  • Assist other lab members, order supplies and track inventory, organize the lab, and coordinate equipment repair. (5%)

All work involves a Biosafety level 3 (BSL‑3) laboratory facility, including experimentation with the pathogenic bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. BSL‑3 work requires high attention to detail, decision‑making under dynamic conditions, and strict use of personal protective equipment.

What We’re Looking For

• Basic Requirements: BS degree in science or engineering with familiarity and some experience in laboratory or analytical science.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Culturing bacterial and mammalian cells.
  • Making mesoscale and high‑throughput measurements.
  • Python or MATLAB programming and machine learning modeling.
  • Recording test results and analyzing data using statistics.
  • Consistent attention to detail and excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Knowledge of MS Office products, statistical/quantitative analysis, and computation.
  • Previous experience with molecular biology and/or cell biology techniques.

Pay Range

Minimum $20.50, Midpoint $24.40, Maximum $28.30. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.