Position Description

The Synthetic Biology Hive (https://synbiohive.org/) is a new hub for synthetic biology research in the Boston area. The Hive aims to tackle the urgent problems of today — climate change, food insecurity, pandemics and many more — using the powerful tools made possible by a deep understanding of biological processes. Our mission is two-fold: pioneer novel solutions to global problems and train the individuals who will lead the transition to a new biology-based economy.
We are seeking a Research Assistant for our MUPPETS project, which aims to develop methods for preserving pathogens for research. In addition, this position will aim in related projects with the CDC and commercial entities around pandemic preparedness and diagnostic development. This position will support lab projects including (1) maintaining and propagating 100s of pathogens (bacteria, fungal, and viral); (2) perform high throughput viability testing; (3) cell culture work; (4) utilizing various equipment such as qPCR and robotics (not a prerequisite skill); and (5) performing molecular biology lab techniques.
The RA will participate in group meetings and collaborate in writing papers and reports to funding agencies. They will attend seminar series within HMS and take part in the scientific and intellectual life of the lab, Harvard Medical School, and the broader MUPPETS team. Strong applicants should be self-motivated and equally adept working independently and bringing their skills to a collaborative and conscientious multidisciplinary team.
This is an exciting position for a recent graduate who wishes to explore the interface between academic research and industrial-scale solutions for global problems. The successful candidate will receive training in robotics, safety, and experimental design.  

Basic Qualifications

• College background or equivalent work experience.
• At least one-year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills

High level of reliability and organization.

Additional Information

This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
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    https://hms.harvard.edu/about-hms/campus-culture/mission-community-values-diversity-statement
 

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.