Technical Assistant I - Metabolomics
Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research is a leading, nonprofit research and educational institution that has defined the cutting edge of biomedical science, creating a legacy of research excellence and academic eminence since 1982. Wholly independent in its governance, finances and research programs, Whitehead shares a teaching affiliation with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), offering the intellectual, collegial and scientific benefits of a leading research university. Whitehead’s Faculty Members and Fellows run pioneering programs in cancer research, immunology, developmental biology, stem cell research, regenerative medicine, genetics and genomics—programs with a record of success.
We offer excellent benefits including a choice of health insurance options; a generous retirement plan; comprehensive dental, disability and life insurance coverage; competitive salary, substantial vacation and holiday time; and programs for tuition reimbursement, dependent care assistance, pre-tax spending accounts, and subsidized public transportation or parking.
Whitehead Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
CLASSIFICATION: Research Staff
REPORTS TO: Metabolomics Core Facility Director
FLSA STATUS: Exempt
The Metabolomics Core Facility is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated individual who is interested in supporting metabolism-based research projects in a variety of experimental models through the use of liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry.
OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY
Provide high-quality and professional support to our liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry platform by performing bench level experiments. Uses discretion in prioritizing and organizing workflow. Works as part of a team to ensure high-quality data acquisition in a state-of-the-art and fast-paced laboratory.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES
· Provide high-quality and professional support to cutting edge scientific research
· Process and prepares samples for analysis by LCMS
· Prepare laboratory buffers and clean laboratory glassware
· Organize laboratory supplies and orders as necessary to maintain laboratory stocks
· Perform weekly cleaning and calibration of LCMS instruments
· Perform data quality checks
· Attend team meetings. May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals.
- Consult with literature and scientific staff to maintain professional expertise.
- Other tasks as required or assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
· BS/MS in biology/biochemistry/ chemistry, or a field directly related to the work.
· Proficient in basic molecular biology and biochemical techniques, including working with micropipettes and buffer making
· Must possess excellent interpersonal skills and the desire to work in a service-oriented environment.
· Exceptional organizational and critical thinking skills; accurate lab notebook practices and attention to detail are essential.
· Experience in the use of Microsoft office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
· Excellent written and oral communication skills.
· Knowledge of biochemical reactions (or you are prepared to learn this).
· Ability to exercise judgment within defined practices and techniques.
· Desire to learn new technologies quickly and in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred:
· At least one year of experience working in a biomedical research laboratory.
· Experience with chromatography (GC or LC) and mass spectrometry.
· Interest in advanced data processing and analysis encouraged (use of Matlab, R, Python etc.).
· Experience in the use of lab-specific software (ChemDraw, GraphPad Prism).
Interested candidates should apply online or submit a resume to resumes@wi.mit.edu