Research Technician

Description - External

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT: 

The Strecker lab (https://www.thestreckerlab.org) of MGH’s Department of Molecular Biology and Harvard Medical School’s Department of Genetics is opening its doors in the Fall of 2023 and is seeking new college graduates to join our research team for a two-year term. The lab investigates diverse immune proteins throughout the natural world, including phage defense and CRISPR-Cas systems, with a particular interest in proteins that detect and use nucleic acids. A long-term goal is to use these basic discoveries to enable new programmable functions in biology and to contribute to our understanding of the human genome and disease. We are located within the Simches Research Building at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.

The successful candidate will help set up the laboratory, contribute to common lab tasks, and participate in research projects under direct supervision of the principal investigator. This position represents an exciting opportunity for recent graduates seeking to gain research experience before applying to PhD, MD, or MD-PhD programs. The principal investigator is committed to inclusive mentorship and will prioritize training and career development for the successful candidate. Cutting-edge training in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and CRISPR biology will be provided including the development of soft skills though scientific presentations at meetings.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Please note, the functions below are representative of major duties that are typically associated with these positions. Specific responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Similarly, not all duties that have been outlined will be assigned to each position.  

-          Pursue research projects under the direct guidance of the principal investigator to study uncharacterized bacterial immune proteins and CRISPR-Cas systems

-          Maintain excellent lab records

-          Prepare common lab reagents and cell lines

-          Assist in lab upkeep and the ordering and receiving of lab reagents 

-          Work collaboratively with other members of the team to support projects as needed

-          Opportunities to travel and present at scientific conferences may be available

A Research Technician II performs the duties of a Research Technician I (above) and may also: 

-          Pursue more independent research projects and non-routine protocols

-          Participate in the design of experiments and development of new methods in the lab

-          Organize and prepare data for publications and presentations

 SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED: 

• Basic molecular biology skills (PCR, cloning, etc.), experience with protein biochemistry or cell culture work is an asset
• Ability to work independently and as a team member 
• Good communication and organizational skills 
• Flexibility and adaptability to a challenging and fast-paced environment

The Research Technician II should also possess: 

• Analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical problems 
• Ability to interpret acceptability of data results 
• Working knowledge of data management programs 
• Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies 

Qualifications - External

EDUCATION: 

• Bachelor’s degree required in biological sciences, genetics, biochemistry or a related field. 
   

EXPERIENCE: 

• New graduates with prior laboratory research experience via internships or research-for-credit will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above.
• Candidates with a minimum of 1 year of directly related work experience will be considered for a Research Technician II position. 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable): 

• A Research Technician II may serve as a team leader to lab assistants and Research Technician I’s.
  
   

ABOUT MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL - DEPARTMENT OF MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

The Department of Molecular Biology (MOLBIO) at Massachusetts General Hospital is a part of both the research community of the hospital and the Division of Medical Sciences of the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Members of the Department carry out basic genetic and molecular biological research on a variety of topics at the cutting edge of the discipline. At present, approximately 170 people, including 13 faculty and over 85 postdoctoral fellows and graduate students comprise the Department of Molecular Biology. The Department is a major component of the Department of Genetics at Harvard Medical School. All Molecular Biology faculty, postdoctoral fellows and graduate students have concurrent appointments at Harvard, mostly in HMS Genetics. Massachusetts General Hospital has a long-standing relationship with Harvard Medical School.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION

MOLBIO strongly believes that actively addressing issues related to institutional racism and other forms of oppression such as sexism will improve our community, address our past complacency, and increase scientific creativity. MOLBIO has established an active Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee that works with a full-time departmental manager who was hired to facilitate DEI efforts. We seek new department members in all capacities who have the interest and drive to continuously enhance our workplace culture. We believe that the most impactful science will be done by creating an environment where people of diverse socio-economic origins, nationalities, immigration statuses, races, color, religions, genders, gender identities or expressions, sexual orientations, genetics, disabilities, ages, or veteran statuses feel a sense of belonging.

EEO: 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. 

EEO Statement

Massachusetts General Hospital 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.