Technical Assistant I - Weissman Lab

The Weissman lab at the Whitehead Institute/MIT/HHMI is seeking a motivated senior student to conduct research focused on dissecting the function of viral proteins derived from human-infecting viruses. This work aims to deepen our understanding of viral biology, provide a rich set of tools to advance synthetic biology, and accelerate the development of antiviral agents. The research involves applying advanced functional genomic tools, single-cell technologies, and proteomics. The lab is widely recognized for pioneering innovative tools that broadly explore the organizational principles of biological systems. These tools include ribosome profiling, which globally monitors protein translation; CRISPRi/a for controlling human gene expression and rewiring the epigenome; and lineage tracing methods for recording cellular history. For more information, please visit the lab’s website: https://weissman.wi.mit.edu/.

About the Technical Assistant I role:

Under the guidance of a senior graduate student, you will help develop and implement new tools in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and microscopy to support the creation of a comprehensive atlas with functional annotations for all genes from human-infecting viruses. This role includes assisting with cloning, cell culture, sequencing, viral vector production, flow cytometry, microscopy, and data analysis. It offers an ideal opportunity for a hardworking, passionate, and self-motivated professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, excels at managing multiple priorities, and seeks a 2-3 year research experience before pursuing graduate or medical school.

What we provide:
• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits
• Exposure to cutting-edge research and working with a collegial, close-knit lab team
• Opportunities to present data in group meetings
• Opportunities for professional development including the potential to eventually take leadership on a project that supports the lab’s larger research goals based on your interests and capabilities
• Weissman research technician ‘alumni’ have a great track record of being accepted to top-tier graduate and medical schools

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

Performs bench level experiments and small independent research projects to support scientific research objectives of the lab or group. Analyzes experimental data, addresses methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and reports data to supervisor.  

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• Perform a variety of laboratory and investigative procedures – including routine experimental techniques such as culturing and maintaining mammalian cell culture lines, production of viral vectors, performing flow cytometry and cell sorting, cloning, standard basic molecular biology techniques, standard biochemical assays such as immunoblotting or affinity purification and basic fluorescence microscopy.
• Work efficiently and cooperatively to assist Postdocs, Graduate Students, and other lab members with experiments.
• Operate lab equipment and prepare and order necessary supply stocks.
• Collect, verify, record, and compile experimental data.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and read literature applicable to the research area(s).
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment to complete investigations.
• Prepare, order, and maintain stocks of necessary reagents, solutions and supplies.
• General lab operations support to help maintain a safe, clean, and orderly lab environment.
• Other tasks as required or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences is required
• Prior experience working in a hands-on research lab is required
• Understanding of basic molecular and cellular biology techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.).
• Some computational experience in Python is a plus
• Tissue culture of mammalian cells and molecular cloning skills is preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, time management skills, and attention to detail.
• Proactive and self-motivated mindset with an eagerness to learn and grow.
• Proficient computer skills with demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of various scientific databases and publications preferred.

Whitehead Institute is an E-Verify employer

https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf