TECHNICAL ASSISTANT I – LEHMANN LAB
Whitehead Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
CLASSIFICATION: Exempt: Research Staff
REPORTS TO: Principal Investigator or other supervisory lab personnel
OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY
A technical assistant position is available in the laboratory of Ruth Lehmann to work on the biochemical and cell biological mechanisms underlying mitochondrial segregation in the germline. The goal of this research is to better understand how this process is regulated during development and how changes can impact the inheritance of mitochondrial mutations that result in disease. The research technician will work closely under the supervision of the Principle Investigator and a postdoctoral fellow to perform a variety of research activities, including fluorescence microscopy, molecular biology, genetics, immunohistochemistry, and data analysis. A qualified individual will be able to interpret experimental outcomes and present findings to the supervisor and other group members in oral and written formats. This is an ideal opportunity for recent graduates to garner additional research experience of 2+ years before attending graduate or medical school. The position is also open to individuals with more extensive experience who are interested in broadening their skills.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES
• In consultation with the Principal Investigator or other project manager, conduct bench level experiments and small independent research projects.
• Immunohistochemistry of Drosophila embryos.
• Fluorescence microscopy and quantitative image analysis.
• Molecular biology - PCR, DNA and RNA purification.
• Genetic crosses and fly stock maintenance.
• Document and compile experimental data in a lab notebook on a daily basis. Reports data to supervisor in oral and written reports. Assist in interpreting experimental data.
• Present findings at lab meeting, respond to challenges, and participate in exchange of ideas to advance the science. Prepare figures and diagrams for presentations and publications.
• Read and understand relevant scientific literature.
• Other tasks as required or assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, or a field directly related to the work.
• At least one year of undergraduate research experience.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, strong organizational and record keeping skills.
• Must be driven, organized, and enthusiastic about learning new skills.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Proficiency in basic lab techniques and principles of molecular biology or microscopy preferred.
• Knowledge of various scientific databases and publications preferred.
Interested candidates should submit a resume to resumes@wi.mit.edu