Research Assistant II- Andzelm Lab

Department Summary

The Andzelm lab is focused on how both common and rare human genetic variation influences neuroinflammatory pathophysiology in collaborative work across Boston Children’s Hospital and at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. We are recruiting a Research Assistant II to join ongoing exciting projects using iPSC-derived neural cells, next generation sequencing, and traditional wet lab work to examine genetic risk factors and mechanisms of neuroinflammation.

The selected research assistant will make key intellectual and technical contributions to this project and will receive excellent training in being an independent, critical thinking scientist. Such training will be instrumental in preparing the candidate for their next career stage (such as medical school, graduate school, academic research positions, biotech research, and others).

• Designing and performing a variety of laboratory assays and procedures that encompass molecular biology, iPSC culture and flow cytometry, among others. These will be carried out utilizing a range of laboratory equipment and will entail accurately documenting procedures undertaken, recording any data generated, and performing a variety of downstream data analysis using a variety of graphical and statistical computer packages.
• Maintaining any equipment, lab area, and supplies they use in a timely, professional manner as well as shared lab upkeeping responsibilities such as maintaining inventory, attending monthly lab safety meetings.
• Carrying out all laboratory activities in compliance with applicable regulations and protocols.
• Attending and engaging in regular lab meetings. Conducting literature searches and critical reviews of published data, presenting your work, and participating in group discussions of both your data and that of others.

Education:

• A Bachelor's degree in Biology or a similar relevant field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 1 year full time wet laboratory research experience, 2 years is preferred (iPSC work preferred but not required).
• Knowledge of the above-mentioned laboratory techniques is not required but familiarity with basic molecular biology techniques and cell culture is helpful. A keen interest in and aptitude for learning new techniques is crucial.
• Familiarity with, or eagerness to learn basic R or python to facilitate data analysis of bulk and single cell RNA sequencing as well as genome sequencing is a plus.
• Analytical skills to resolve problems that require the use of basic scientific, mathematical, or technical principles.
• Ability to communicate data and scientific ideas clearly in one-on-one meetings, meetings with collaborators, and larger settings such as lab meeting.
• Initiative to manage your schedule and experiments independently of your mentor, as well as problem solve independently.