Research Assistant I

Position Summary:
One of our Infectious Disease Labs is looking for a Research Assistant to join a team working on an exciting project team related to vaccine development against the common human pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae and understand the mechanism of protection induced by vaccination. This is an excellent opportunity to work at a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, become involved in and learn cutting-edge microbiological and immunological techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

• According to prescribed protocols and assigned schedules, performs a variety of routine laboratory experiments and procedures, utilizing standard laboratory equipment, recording and checking results for completeness and accuracy.
• Assists in troubleshooting procedures if experimental results are unexpected or quality of specimens is poor.
• Performs the following techniques typically required for the laboratory/study:
  • Maintains records of results and methodologies in a log of work performed.
  • Maintains equipment, lab area, and supplies in a neat professional manner.
  • Sterilize and clean glassware, and prepare media and other materials using appropriate procedures.
  • Inventories supplies, alerts supervisor to needed supplies, or mixes standard reagents.
  • Processes order for supplies and/or animals. Attends courses in safety procedures for handling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous, flammable, corrosive, and toxic materials.
  • Carries out all laboratory activities in compliance with applicable regulations and protocols.
• Conducts literature searches and reviews, compiling information for journals and suggesting uses for new techniques to the P.I.
• Attends courses, lectures, and conferences to further own knowledge of research and laboratory techniques, consulting with other researchers and technicians to exchange information.
• Contributes to the team within and between departments and organizations .

Minimum Qualifications
Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry or a related field is required.

Experience:

• Willingness to work with/handle mice.
• Interest in immunology and vaccinology.
• The Analytical skills to resolve problems that require the use of basic scientific, mathematical, or technical principles.
• The Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

The posted pay range is Boston Children's reasonable and good-faith expectation for this pay at the time of posting.

Any base pay offer provided depends on skills, experience, education, certifications, and a variety of other job-related factors. Base pay is one part of a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible schedules, affordable health, vision and dental insurance, child care and student loan subsidies, generous levels of time off, 403(b) Retirement Savings plan, Pension, Tuition and certain License and Certification Reimbursement, cell phone plan discounts and discounted rates on T-passes. Experience the benefits of passion and teamwork.