Microscope Imaging Research Technician
Working directly at and with a major academic medical center in Boston, Boston Lighthouse has openings for a Microscopy Imaging Research Technician.
This position will be engaged in basic and translation research in pathology, focusing on deciphering the molecular mechanisms of cancer and other complex diseases. Our research groups work in close collaboration with scientists and clinicians across the Department of Pathology at the Massachusetts General Hospital as well as other research groups within the wider scientific ecosystem of Harvard and MIT. One of our key objectives is the discovery and development of novel molecular tissue-based biomarkers for diagnosing cancer and predicting the response to molecularly directed anti-cancer drug therapy. To this end, we use a variety of laboratory and in vitro diagnostic techniques, including next-generation sequencing and advanced microscopy imaging, to examine tissue specimens of cancer patients and devise optimized treatment strategies.
We are currently developing an image-based assay and are establishing antibody-based panels for highly multiplexed immunofluorescence microscopy imaging. We are looking for a scientifically curious individual to join our interdisciplinary team of pathologists, biologists, engineers, and data scientists in developing the next generation of in vitro diagnostic tests. The position is ideal for individuals with an interest in working at the interface of research, biotechnology development, and clinical medicine to help improving the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
You will work closely with a research lab involved with the development of the image-based assay in the Pathology laboratory and with data scientists and computer vision experts in Computational Pathology on the development of computational tools and software solutions for image analysis and visualization.
A commitment of at least two years is required.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Microscopy Imaging Technician will work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary research team to develop a multiplexed immunofluorescence microscopy imaging assay for in vitro diagnostics. In conjunction with the Molecular and Computational Pathology teams, and under the supervision of the investigators, the Microscopy Imaging Technician will:
- Establish a panel of antibodies for indirect immunofluorescence imaging, including the optimization of antibody staining conditions (e.g., concentrations and incubation times) and imaging settings (e.g., exposure times and laser intensities)
- Prepare tissue specimens for imaging, in particular staining of tissue section specimens with fluorophore-labeled antibodies and fluorescence dyes
- Acquire digital images of stained tissue specimens using an automated fluorescence microscope
- Summarize and communicate experimental design and results with the investigators
A successful candidate must:
- Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and desire for continuous learning
- Be dedicated to employment of best laboratory practices and scientific methodology
- Be committed to assay optimization despite experimental challenges and potential setbacks
SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
· Practical experience in antibody-based molecular biology techniques such as immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or other immunoassays
· Experience in preparing and working with formalin fixed, paraffin embedded tissue section specimens or cultured tissue cells for microscopy imaging
· Expertise and experience in optical light microscopy, including digital image acquisition using epifluorescence or confocal microscopes
· Basic knowledge of digital image analysis techniques and measures (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio) and image analysis and visualization software (e.g., ImageJ)
· Basic understanding of statistics (e.g., mean, standard deviation, correlation) and proficiency in analyzing and visualizing scientific data using statistical analysis software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, MATLAB, R, or Python)
- Ability to communicate the design and results of experiments in form of graphs and scientific presentations
- Competence in troubleshooting experiments and in optimizing staining and imaging conditions
EDUCATION:
BA or BS degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Engineering, or related field
EXPERIENCE:
- One year of practical experience in working in a laboratory
- Experience in life sciences preferred
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Location and Other:
- This position will be located in MGH Pathology at the Charlestown Navy Yard campus in Charlestown, MA
- Occasional travel to affiliate clinical and research sites (in Boston) for meetings and seminars