Research Lab Tech I

Research Lab Tech I

Overview:

At the Harvey Cushing Neuro-Oncology Laboratories (HCNL), within the Department of Neurosurgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital, our research is focused on the developmental immunotherapy and tumor immune mechanisms governing highly immune tolerance and resistance in brain tumors. We use advanced DNA and RNA manipulation and animal models in conjunction with the latest molecular and immunological tools in our investigation of brain tumor and immunity. 

We are looking for an energetic and highly organized research assistant interested in various biological and immunological experiments, including plasmid DNA, RNA, genome extraction, (RT-)PCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry (FACS), virus, cell culture, and other essential molecular biological experiments. The position will perform research projects with a supervisor. As our research uses small animal (mice) models, this position may need to assist with animal care/experimentation, including orthotopic glioblastoma xenograft models, imaging, and health check (weekly body weight, post-surgery care). Other work includes writing laboratory SOPs, various regulatory protocols such as IACUC and IBC and data formatting with Excel, R, and other bioinformatic approaches.

As a part of the research team, duties and responsibilities include:

• Working with Dr. Villa, Dr. Mineo, and team to perform research projects.
• Assisting with mouse studies, including health monitoring, orthotopic glioblastoma intracranial injections, and in vivo imaging of post-surgery mice.
• Maintaining and organizing biological material resources.
• Maintaining and organizing collected DATA, and keep good lab records (all research activities must be recorded in a digital notebook (LabArchives).
• Performing preparatory laboratory work (e.g., autoclave, reagent preparation, etc.).
• Attendance at all lab meetings.
• Routine maintenance of lab equipment.
• Other tasks as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in biology, veterinary, neuroscience, immunology, or related field.
• Basic knowledge and techniques of cell culture, tissue processing, molecular biology, chemistry, small animal handling and colony management skills,
• Good laboratory practices, well organized in planning and performing lab work, maintaining good lab records and electronic notebooks are necessary.
• Strong motivation for curiosity-driven research, hypothesis-generation, and constant desire to improve on scientific technologies.
• Additional experience working in Research Labs or animal facilities that handle mice experience helpful; experience with biological and immunological laboratory techniques including DNA cloning into vectors,  processing methods and analysis of DNA/RNA/protein from cells, tissues and mice, tissue culture, immunohistochemistry, operations of florescent microscopy, flow cytometry, PCR machines, and/or ultra-centrifugation is a plus.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse team of researchers.
• Ability to make at least 1-year commitment to the position to contribute technically to newly funded grant studies.  Longer term contribution of more than 1 year is welcomed.

NOTE:  This is a grant-funded position expected to last 2 years, but subject to termination if grant funding expires.