Research Assistant IV - RNA Technologies

About us:

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About you: 

You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You are excited about science and enjoy working at the bench, and are interested in gaining additional research experience in a translational environment. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the role:

We are looking for a Research Assistant IV with significant expertise in RNA biochemistry and NGS library prep to develop new RNA-based technologies. You will work with a multidisciplinary team on developing RNA-based technologies for investigating pathological states from human biofluids. You will lead development of novel Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) experimental and computational methods that will be used across different diseases. Although you will work within a team and receive significant experimental and computational training, you will also have significant opportunities for scientific independence, and previous RAs working with us have contributed to multiple publications and presented their work at international conferences.

What you’ll do:

• Develop new technologies for profiling of nucleic acid biomarkers from human biofluids and analyze resulting Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) data for circulating nucleic acids changes in different disease states
• Perform computational analysis of RNA-Seq data
• Provide training and guidance to other lab members on experimental and computational techniques
• Present data at internal Wyss meetings and prepare presentations for updating program officers from funding agencies
• Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others.

What you'll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science or related field is required.
• Three or more years of full-time experience in molecular biology or biochemistry, including experience with RNA molecular biology techniques and constructing/optimizing NGS libraries; and/or programming experience in Python and/or R and analyzing NGS data is required. Advanced education may count towards years of experience.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with RNA-Seq bioinformatic analysis is highly advantageous
• Experience with liquid handling robots is advantageous
• Experience with RNA and/or protein biochemistry is advantageous

This is a one year term position with the possibility of renewal

Harvard is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.


Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

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