Research Technician

General Overview 

The pioneering efforts of the Harris Orthopaedics Laboratory have positively impacted the quality of life of millions of patients through innovation since its inception in 1969. The mission of the laboratory is to improve patient outcomes through materials science and clinical research with an emphasis on orthopaedic applications. Harris Orthopaedics Laboratory is focused on the development of polymeric and hybrid materials for applications in orthopaedics. We are seeking a highly motivated individual for an entry-level research position to support our translational research program in implantable biomaterial development. This position is ideal for new engineering graduates interested in the medical application of basic and translational research and is a great opportunity for those who want to gain some experience before continuing their education in graduate or medical school.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following activities:

Specific technical functions:

• Performing phenotype and genotype bacterial characterization of Gram (+), Gram (-) biofilms and polymicrobial cultures
• Antibacterial characterization in solution and on material surfaces
• Bacterial characterization of periprosthetic tissues and retrieved implants
• Preparation and characterization of bacteria cultures and tissues on-site and local off-site research facilities for susceptibility analysis, DNA/RNA isolation, real-time PCR, electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), and fluorescent imaging.
• May include supporting preclinical in-vivo experiments in rodent orthopaedic models of joint replacement and long-bone fracture
• Laboratory formulation, including preparation of macromers, polymers, polymer blends, polymeric consolidation
• Characterization of polymers on-site and local off-site research facilities, including drug elution, mechanical and fatigue testing, wear testing, and antibacterial testing of materials.

General laboratory functions:

• Assembly, operation, maintaining operation protocols, scheduling management, and some maintenance of assigned equipment
• Ordering supplies and keeping track of related inventory
• Maintaining clean equipment, glassware, and laboratory space
• Storing data, samples, and protocols in the appropriate locations in the appropriate formats
• Working alongside other research technicians, MD students, PhD students and post-doctoral fellows

Administrative/reporting functions:

• Organizing and accurately maintaining written records of procedures and data
• Generating and compiling experimental information/results in graphs, charts, and reports.
• Preparing written and/or verbal reports for supervisor and/or senior research personnel.
• Collaborating with team members and supervisor(s) in developing research methodologies and research objectives
• Collaborating with team members and supervisor(s) in writing and editing material for publication; opportunity for authorship in publications

Skills/Abilities/Qualifications:

• Must have BS. Non-engineering degrees will ONLY be considered with relevant experience.
• Must have at least one non-course-based laboratory research experience, such as a summer internship or research assistantship.
• Must have experience handling bacterial cultures and aseptic microbial culture techniques.
• Experience performing assays such as real-time PCR, and nucleic acid isolation (DNA/RNA) a plus.
• Coursework and/or internship experience in biomaterials with emphasis on polymeric materials a plus.
• Robust written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills are all expected. Independence, self-motivation, and a willingness to learn new skills are also vital for succeeding in this position.  
• Must have solid, practical skills in Microsoft Office applications. Demonstrated proficiency in Matlab/image analysis softwares is a plus.

This position requires strong academic performance (minimum 3.2 GPA is preferred). The ideal candidate will also have had prior research experience. The position is most suitable for a duration of 2-3 years, and preference will be given to a candidate planning to matriculate at a medical or graduate school in 2025 or later.

EEO Statement 

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.