Position Description

We are seeking a Research Assistant I to support Dr. Norbert Perrimon’s lab in the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School. Overall, the lab seeks to understand how cells, tissues, and organs communicate during development, and how complex phenotypes arise in animals. More information can be found on the lab website: https://perrimon.med.harvard.edu/.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:
The Research Assistant I will work as part of a biomedical technology research group within the lab developing state-of-the-art tools and methods for Drosophila cell-based and in vivo studies. They will provide support on research projects including defining the scope of the projects, researching the scientific topics and technologies, and implementing appropriate solutions that meet project timelines. These projects are innovative in approach and scale and focus on diverse fundamental and human health-relevant topics that can benefit from a cross-species approach. Recent projects of the type that the candidate would be joining include projects focused on cancer cell biology, mechanisms of aging, the functions of specific cellular organelles, and the development of state-of-the-art CRISPR tools.

Day-to-day, the candidate will work primarily on individual projects while functioning as part of an integrated and collaborative team. The ability to carry out assigned projects is further supported by access to exceptional facilities, equipment, and other resources within the lab and at core facilities on our campus. Although the focus of the position is benchwork, the candidate will also participate in monthly technology-focused group meetings and have the option to participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and relevant seminars. The ideal candidate is a motivated, well-organized, and committed laboratory research assistant with prior wet lab experience.

We are open to considering candidates looking to stay within the lab for at least 2-3 years before moving on to graduate or medical school, or candidates who are seeking a long-term, stable position and who are
passionate about contributing to the lab’s full research portfolio.

Principal Responsibilities:

• Work efficiently and cooperatively with a team of researchers conducting in vivo and cell-based studies, including employing the following CRISPR-based genome engineering Molecular biology to generate and analyze plasmid DNA
• Help develop new assays using FACS, sc-RNAseq, imaging, or other readouts
• Maintain precise records of work and appropriately manage digital data generated in the work
• Assist with open sharing of know-how and resources with collaborators and with the community at large, such as by preparing detailed protocols or sharing materials with repositories
• Assist with other support duties relating to lab management and operations as required

Basic Qualifications

One year of related work experience (relevant coursework may count toward some, but not all, required work experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in the life sciences or related discipline preferred (or equivalent education and experience)
• Previous experience with the following molecular biological techniques and familiarity with underlying scientific principles is preferred:
  • Molecular biology techniques (PCR, Gibson, and other cloning methods, gel electrophoresis) to generate and quality analyze plasmid DNA and RNA reagents
• Previous experience with Drosophila is a plus
• Ability to draft accurate scientific reports
• Ability to apply experience to new techniques and protocols and learn complex tasks with general instruction
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Strong enthusiasm for developing new skills and expertise
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Exemplary organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to use good judgment in managing deadlines and responding to inquiries
• Detail-oriented with highly accurate work product
• Ability to follow instruction with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored

Additional Information

This is a two-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 

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

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

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.