Research Assistant I Lab

Harvard Medical School

Boston, MA

ID: 7143352 (Ref.No. hh-62254BR)
Posted: May 3, 2023
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Job Description

Position Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and independent individual for a full-time research technician position in the Sabatini laboratory at Harvard Medical School. The research technician will work primarily with Dr. Paolo Capelli, a postdoc in the laboratory.

We study how neuronal integration happens at the interface of forebrain and hindbrain structures with the aim to understand goal-directed skilled motor actions. We use a wide range of techniques from molecular and cellular biology to behavioral testing, optogenetics, and in-vivo recordings, the basic idea is that we are committed to setting up any technique that will allow us to address some of the burning biological questions related to the project, the candidate will be part of the process.

The technician’s daily responsibilities will include laboratory general jobs, experimental work with mice, wet bench work, and data analysis. The amount of each task will vary accordingly to the project needs, this will also allow the applicant to explore different techniques and challenges for their professional growth.

The research technician will have daily discussions with Paolo to slowly transition to independence, at the independent stage there will be a continuous exchange on weekly basis.

Prior laboratory experience is required, as well as strong organizational skills and an eagerness to learn. Successful candidates will be independent, outgoing, flexible, self-motivated, and able to assimilate new information and execute quickly. Good coding skills (Matlab and/or Python) make a great candidate for this position. The candidate will work in a motivated team to pursue scientific discoveries.
Basic Qualifications
  • College background and at least one-year related lab experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills are required.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
  • Bachelor's or Master’s degree with prior experience in a wet lab environment.
  • A major in Neuroscience, Biology, and Chemistry is preferred.
  • Experience in one or more of the following techniques would be preferred: cell culture, biochemistry techniques, mouse intracranial surgery, and histological preparations.
  • Experience or willingness to work with mice, manage a mouse colony, and perform survival and non-survival procedures as necessary.
  • Analytical skills to resolve problems that require the use of basic scientific, mathematical, or technical principles. Some experience with programming, using R and/or Python is preferred.
  • Candidates should be communicative with excellent interpersonal skills, attentive to detail, organized, and thoughtful about the protocols and techniques being executed
  • Creativity, flexibility, and perseverance to troubleshoot and overcome inevitable experimental difficulties and changing experimental goals in light of new results.
Additional Information
This is a one-year term position from an date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 

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

This is an in-person position based on our campus in Boston. 

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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Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
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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