Research Technician I | Center For Genomic Medicine

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Kleinstiver Laboratory (www.kleinstiverlab.org) in the Center for Genomic Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is seeking motivated and enthusiastic candidates to join our team. Our research group develops, engineers, optimizes, and applies CRISPR genome editing technologies for biomedical research and to pursue new treatments for human diseases. We utilize protein engineering methods to impart desirable properties into various CRISPR-Cas nucleases (e.g. Cas9, Cpf1/Cas12a, other Cas12 enzymes, etc.), base editors, prime editors, click editors, various editors capable of large sequence edits (e.g. CRISPR-associated transposases (CASTs), transposons, recombinases, etc.) and other novel editing platforms. Examples of key properties of these genome editing tools that seek to optimize include their efficiency (on-target activity), safety (reducing off-target activity), utility (targeting range / ability to access the genome), size (to enable delivery applications), precision (their edit outcome, etc.), and many other characteristics. Optimized proteins are developed through various methods including protein engineering, directed evolution, bacteria or human cell-based selections, structure-guided engineering, and machine learning. We then translate these optimized reagents into pre-clinical models and primary cell types to explore their potential to correct disease-causing mutations. The candidate will play an integral role in projects related to genome editing technology development, protein engineering method development, optimization of new tools and applications thereof. Candidates should have an interest in genome engineering, CRISPR-Cas enzymes, protein engineering, molecular evolution, generating cellular models, the development of novel therapeutics, and other related areas.

Under the direction of Dr. Kleinstiver and other lab members, the candidate for the Research Technician I or II position(s) will become proficient in the following duties (examples, but not limited to): routine molecular biology (PCR, recombinant DNA cloning, bacterial transformations, etc.), biochemical techniques, mammalian cell culture, assessment of genome editing technologies in bacteria and mammalian cells, DNA sequencing (Sanger and NGS), designing and executing experiments, analyzing and visualizing data, assisting with routine laboratory tasks (organizing, ordering, stocking, etc.), preparing reagents and solutions, developing and optimizing genome editing assays, recording experimental details and results in an electronic notebook, time management, communication skills, and presenting summaries of work or scientific papers in lab meeting and journal club, respectively.

Interested candidates must submit their application via the MGH Job Posting to include the below items. You may also email the below items to Dr. Kleinstiver (bkleinstiver@mgh.harvard.edu) once you have completed your application online:

1. a CV detailing scientific experience, technical skills, publications, presentations, examples of mentorship, etc.

2. a description of the candidate’s research interests, examples of organizational skills, any knowledge or knowhow of genome editing technologies (not required for the position), and career aspirations.

3. contact information for three (3) references, including a description of the referee’s familiarity with the candidate.

A Research Technician II performs the duties of a Research Technician I (above) and may also: