Research Assistant II

Position Summary
The Kourembanas laboratory focuses on studying the molecular and cellular processes underlying the developmental lung injury affecting preterm infants, known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia or chronic lung disease of prematurity. A complementary active area of research in the lab is the study of stem cell-based therapies focusing on the biology and application of mesenchymal stem cell extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) as vectors of intercellular signaling and potent immune modulators. The Kourembanas group was first to demonstrate the effect of MSC-EVs on preventing and reversing pulmonary hypertension and neonatal hyperoxic lung injury in experimental models, paving the way for future cell-free regenerative approaches for the treatment of important diseases of the newborn infant. This research assistant position will be involved in both animal model (murine) and human monocyte tissue culture-based projects. Ideally, a successful candidate would be able to make a minimum 18-month commitment.

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:

• A bachelor's degree in STEM ideally with a focus on Immunology or Molecular Biology

Experience:

• Tissue culture and molecular biology experience necessary.
• Immunology background, murine model experience, histology and flow cytometry skills are a plus.
• Analytical skills to resolve problems that require the use of basic scientific, mathematical, statistical or technical principles.
• 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.