Research Assistant

Job Profile Summary This role focuses on performing work related to research and development of new products, innovation, and improvement of products and processes. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Research Programs and Projects duties: Supports the development of new products and innovation. Includes Clinical roles focused on research projects. Positions in this family perform basic, translational, and/or clinical research towards solving a specific problem for an entity or community. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower level professionals or manage processes and programs. The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An entry level role that applies broad theoretical job knowledge typically obtained through advanced education. May require the following proficiency: work is closely supervised, problems faced are not typically difficult or complex, and explains facts, policies and practices related to job area. Job Overview This position reports to the Principal Investigator and provides assistance in support of research activities under close supervision. The research concerns babesiosis, a tick-borne disease caused by a parasite that infects red blood cells. The research assistant will participate in projects that aim at i) developing a protein-based vaccine against human babesiosis, and ii) testing novel compounds for the treatment of relapsing babesiosis. Techniques will include flow cytometry to monitor the frequency of infected red blood cells in blood, ELISA to quantify antibody titers in plasma, and PCR to determine mouse genotypes and track low-grade infection. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent. Preferred Qualifications One (1) year of research experience. Bachelor's degree preferred. Experience with flow cytometry, ELISA and PCR is welcome. The work requires handling of mice. Knowledge of immunology is a plus. Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned. Facilitates data collection and ensuring that all data is collected in a timely fashion, which includes identifying missing data and implementing data checks, as well as generation of reports. Performs tasks which may require familiarity with a variety of protocols, techniques and equipment. Maintains and updates records, reports and files as required. Assists with preparation of abstracts, presentations, and publications as needed. Attends meetings as required, may be asked to take minutes. Performs literature searches either relevant to the project(s), else in pursuit of new techniques/ideas to expand relevant basic knowledge. Schedules meetings or study visits, as well as calendar maintenance. Logs work performed. Assists with the collection, storage, and shipping of biological samples. Maintains and updates records in accordance with IRB/WIRB and sponsor requirements. Maintains collaborative, team relationships with peers and colleagues in order to effectively contribute to the working group’s achievement of goals, and to help foster a positive work environment. Physical Requirements Ability to sit for extended periods of time. Skills & Abilities Excellent written and oral communication skills. Strong computer skills, including proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel and Power Point), and familiarity with databases (e.g., experience using MS Access). Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle competing demands in order to meet project timelines. Ability to follow directions from supervisor and work well in a collaborative team environment. Ability to multi-task and prioritize responsibilities as needed. Ability to be meticulous and detail-oriented in following procedures and recordkeeping. At Tufts Medicine, we want every individual to feel valued for the skills and experience they bring. Our compensation philosophy is designed to offer fair, competitive pay that attracts, retains, and motivates highly talented individuals, while rewarding the important work you do every day. The base pay ranges reflect the minimum qualifications for the role. Individual offers are determined using a comprehensive approach that considers relevant experience, certifications, education, skills, and internal equity to ensure compensation is fair, consistent, and aligned with our business goals. Beyond base pay, Tufts Medicine provides a comprehensive Total Rewards package that supports your health, financial security, and career growth—one of the many ways we invest in you so you can thrive both at work and outside of it. Pay Range: $43,888.00 - $53,337.55 Tufts Medicine is a leading integrated health system bringing together the best of academic and community health care to deliver exceptional, connected and accessible care experiences to consumers across Massachusetts. Comprised of Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Healthcare, an expansive home care network and a large clinically integrated physician network, Tufts Medicine has more than 15,000 dedicated employees and caregivers. The health system came together in 2014 to leverage the experience of its member organizations and integrate their missions to together transform the ways that consumers engage with and experience their care. #J-18808-Ljbffr