Research Technician Molecular Biology & Microbiology TUSM

Tufts University; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Tufts University in Massachusetts is seeking a Research Technician to support routine experiments under supervision. The role focuses on genetic, molecular biology, and biochemical analyses of Clostridioides difficile, including PCR, protein purification, and cloning.

The selected candidate will contribute to data collection, manuscript preparation, and conference presentations. Applicants should have a science degree and up to one year laboratory experience, with training provided for many

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in science with up to one year laboratory experience.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques; protein purification using HPLC and protein-protein interaction techniques desirable.
• Self-motivated, analytical, reliable, conscientious, organized; able to work with others and learn.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute biochemical, molecular biology, and genetic studies of Clostridioides difficile.
• Record results, maintain logs, and assist in data analysis and reporting.
• Maintain lab notes, protocols, and equipment; assist in developing new protocols.
• Order supplies and oversee safe lab operations.
• Provide general lab support and keep workspace organized.
• Attend lab meetings and present data when appropriate.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in science

Tools

HPLC

PCR

Electrophoresis

Molecular cloning

Co-affinity purification

Job description

Overview

Members of the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology are actively engaged in research on fundamental and medically related problems in microbiology and molecular genetics. Active projects include studies of the genetics and biochemistry of bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens, and their interaction with host cells, the mode of action of antibiotics and drug resistance, the intracellular organization of bacteria, mechanisms of gene regulation, mechanisms of virus entry, gene expression, replication and assembly. The Department strives to be an inclusive and welcoming environment that celebrates the diversity and diverse experiences of its members (https://medicine.tufts.edu/about/academic-departments/basic-science-departments/molecular-biology-and-microbiology).

Overview

Members of the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology are actively engaged in research on fundamental and medically related problems in microbiology and molecular genetics. Active projects include studies of the genetics and biochemistry of bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens, and their interaction with host cells, the mode of action of antibiotics and drug resistance, the intracellular organization of bacteria, mechanisms of gene regulation, mechanisms of virus entry, gene expression, replication and assembly. The Department strives to be an inclusive and welcoming environment that celebrates the diversity and diverse experiences of its members (https://medicine.tufts.edu/about/academic-departments/basic-science-departments/molecular-biology-and-microbiology).

What You'll Do

Under close supervision of Principal Investigator, individuals in this Research Technician position will conduct a variety of routine experiments following established procedures and protocols, which may include performing primarily genetic and biochemical analyses of Clostridioides difficile, a major healthcare-associated bacterial pathogen. The technician will record test results, analyze data, maintain laboratory equipment and supplies, present at lab meetings, attend conferences, and ideally will contribute to the data collection, analysis, and writing of manuscripts.

• Plans and executes experiments that will require a variety of biochemical, molecular biology, and genetic studies of Clostridioides difficile spore germination. Training will be provided.
• Provides specialized laboratory assistance in the support of genetic, biochemical, molecular biology, and cell biological techniques in studies of Clostridioides difficile. Techniques include PCR, electrophoresis, protein purification using HPLC, co-affinity purification analyses, molecular cloning and others.
• Records results and maintains accurate records of experiments. Collects, compiles, and assists in analyzing research data and writing reports, including the use of basic statistics; performs literature searches and integrates information into experimental planning and data analysis.
• Maintains notes and files to include research results, protocols, methods, and other documentation. Assist in the planning, design, and development of new protocols and experiments
• Maintains laboratory equipment and orders/keeps inventory of supplies. Helps monitor receipt and purchasing of lab supplies. Provides oversight for the safe operation of the lab.
• Provides functional support for laboratory personnel in the form of helping keep the lab organized and well-stocked; may assist with experiments of members within the lab or help with common equipment, e.g. freezer defrosting.
• Attends lab meetings, super-group meetings, research seminars. Presents data where appropriate including at conferences.

What We're Looking For

Knowledge and experience typically acquired by:

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree In science with up to one year laboratory experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and procedures, but biochemistry experience with protein purifications using HPLC and protein-protein interaction techniques is desirable but not necessary.
• Familiarity with molecular cloning techniques, protein purification, anaerobic culture, fluorescence microscopy, and/or standard microbiology is desirable but training will be provided otherwise.
• The individual must be self-motivated, possess analytical skills and be vested in the scientific endeavor.
• The position requires someone who is reliable, conscientious, systematic, organized, willing to learn, and works well with others.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion required.

Pay Range

Minimum $20.90, Midpoint $24.90, Maximum $28.90

Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.