Research Assistant I Lab

Harvard Medical School

Boston, MA

ID: 7142109 (Ref.No. hh-62172BR)
Posted: April 26, 2023
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Position Description
The Ginty Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School uses a combination of molecular genetics, anatomy, behavior, and electrophysiology to gain a better appreciation of the development, organization, and function of low-threshold mechanoreceptors and the complex neural circuitry that underlies our sense of touch.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant (RA) to assist in the study of neural circuitry that underlies touch and pain. Working under the direction of the Principal Investigator and senior lab personnel, the successful candidate will utilize mouse genetics, molecular biology, and histological and behavioral approaches to understand the neurobiological mechanisms of touch and pain.

Working within established guidelines and under specific direction from supervisors and other research staff, the RA will:
  • Prepare lab reagents, chemicals, instruments, and equipment
  • Perform mouse husbandry tasks
  • Perform laboratory experiments utilizing standard techniques including mouse behavioral assays, immunohistochemical analysis, microscopy, and genotyping.
  • Assists in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols
  • Processes, organizes, summarizes, and reports experimental data using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet, or statistical software applications or program platforms.
  • Participate in weekly lab meetings and journal clubs
  • Instruct and assist other staff and students in basic laboratory techniques
  • Perform related lab duties such as processing orders/invoices, maintaining and cleaning equipment, preparing common stock solutions, ordering and restocking supplies, and keeping a clean laboratory environment.
Basic Qualifications
College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
  • Demonstrated competence in mouse work including husbandry and genotyping.
  • Ability to perform, analyze and resolve technical issues related to mouse work.
  • Must be able to work independently in the lab as well as under direction of the lead investigator.
  • Excellent communication skills. Sound interpersonal skills and the ability to supervise others.
  • Ability to work independently and display initiative to introduce innovations to research study.
  • Ability to identify problems and develop solutions. Ability to prioritize tasks and set deadlines.
  • Functions with speed, precision and an understanding of theory behind procedures.
Additional Information
This is an in-person position based on our campus in Boston. 

This is a 12-month term appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent on funding.

Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre-placement medical evaluation.

Harvard University continues to place the highest priority on the health, safety, and well-being of its faculty, staff, and students, as well as the wider community. Please note that all new employees will be required to complete an attestation of having received their primary series COVID-19 vaccination prior to hire, as detailed on our COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Webpage. Individuals may request exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons prior to completing the hiring process. Additional information regarding this requirement, exemptions, verification of vaccination status, and other related policies and resources may be found on the University’s COVID-19 Information Website.

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

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We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals. Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Values
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.


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