Research Assistant II PULMONARY RESEARCH COPD
Primary Location MA-Boston-BWH Boston Main Campus
Work Locations BWH Boston Main Campus 75 Francis St Boston 02115
Job Clinical
Organization Brigham & Women's Hospital(BWH)
Schedule Full-time
Standard Hours 40
Shift Day Job
Employee Status Regular
Recruiting Department BWH Department Of Medicine / Pulmonary Medicine
Job Posting Jul 12, 2022
This full-time research technician will actively participate in experimental research with an interdisciplinary team. The Research Assistant will expose mice to cigarette smoke and will take care of animal colonies to develop a mouse model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The Research Assistant will also wean litters, insert ear tags to identify the animals, perform tail biopsies, and enter information into excel spreadsheets, prepare reagents and buffers, and other experiments as directed by the Principal Investigator. Additionally, the technician will utilize state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo models and work with investigators who identify molecular mechanisms of COPD. He/She will be responsible for planning activities, keeping accurate and concurrent records of specific experiments performed and ordering supplies and reagents. He/She will actively participate in experimental research related to these goals and has the capability to present his/her lab work. He/she works with the supervisor to perform non-routine, highly specialized experiments and will be responsible for troubleshooting instruments or protocol failures.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Performance of mouse cigarette smoke exposures using the smoke exposure equipment available in the Laboratory Building.
- Work with murine models of lung disease relevant to molecular targets of interest, including murine colony maintenance, genotype confirmation of gene-targeted mice,.
- Perform molecular and cellular biology experiments, including but not limited to: PCR, DNA and protein gel electrophoresis, Western blots, RNA preps, quantitative real-time PCR, mammalian cell (tissue) culture, transfect and infect cells with expression vectors, CRISPR - cas9 delivery in primary cells, organoid cultures, and precision cut lung slice studies.
- Routine care for laboratory colonies of mice (30% time)
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of all animal experiments.
- Maintain equipment and supplies in a neat and orderly manner.
- Laboratory based experiments such as genotyping.
- Submit and place orders for supplies, chemicals, and other reagents.
- All other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
BS OR BA
At least one year of work experience in a research setting. Sound independent judgment and competence in research methodologies
SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
- Quality of work and data produced – accuracy, attention to detail, raises questions promptly with Investigators about matters affecting data quality. Ability to independently follow protocols and troubleshoot procedures as required.
- Time management – meets deadlines, balances multiple projects at all times, plans with supervisors and other staff to work together to meet deadlines.
- Standards – knowledge of subject matter and continually striving to learn more about methods, project design, and offering improvements to current techniques.
- Communication – professional, courteous, and accurate communication of progress or results to supervisors and principal investigators.
- Documentation – ability to provide thorough written and/or electronic documentation of all costs, protocols, weekly project status reports and laboratory project-.
- Ability to work independently and to function as part of a team.
- Knowledge of cell biology and/or molecular biology.
- Experience with cell culture techniques, molecular cloning, PCR, CRISPR/Cas9 technique, and primary cell culture is required.
- Experience with additional lab techniques including flow cytometry, western blotting, ELISA, microscopy and animal experiments is a plus.
- Ability to identify potential problems, communicate and troubleshoot them effectively.
- Ability to independently design and analyze experiments and work autonomously in a fast-paced environment.
- Must be able to operate and maintain delicate electronic equipment and safely use and dispose of toxic chemicals and biohazards materials.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Must be able to thoroughly document experiments, protocols, and data. Must be able to logically structure tasks and set priorities.
- Proficiency in computer use, especially Microsoft Office programs.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Variety of laboratory/office settings. Exposure to toxic chemicals and biohazards materials. Work may require odd hours to complete experiments.
EEO Statement
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.