Lab Administrative Research Technician - Mootha Lab

We are seeking an energetic and well-organized Laboratory Manager to support Dr. Vamsi Mootha's Lab which is dual localized at Massachusetts General Hospital and The Broad Institute. The Mootha Lab focuses on mitochondria - ancient "powerhouses" critical for energy homeostasis - using a multidisciplinary approach that combines modern genomics, computation, and classical biochemical physiology. The laboratory is highly focused on basic research, with the full expectation that the results will be highly informative to a variety of diseases spanning rare, inborn errors of metabolism to neurodegeneration. More information about the lab can be found on their .

This position sits at the intersection of science and administration - we are targeting candidates with an aptitude and passion for lab administration, as well as an interest and background in benchwork. This role will provide the opportunity to have a direct impact on the science being conducted in the lab, through careful and thorough management of lab resources and a keen eye for process improvement.

We are ideally targeting candidates that are seeking a long-term, stable position who are passionate about day-to-day operations of the lab, and interested in basic and disease research. This role is a pivotal part of an exciting, friendly, and fast-paced lab; composed of a fun and diverse mix of college students, graduate students, postdoctoral associates, physician scientists, and research staff. This is a rare opportunity to be a part of a highly collaborative, cutting edge research team with the opportunity to co-author publications if desired.

Principal Responsibilities:

Lab Operations - 50%

• Manage the day-to-day activities and organization within the laboratory's location at The Broad Institute, including effective operation of equipment, inventory management, and assisting with requisitioning for all members of the lab.

• Maintain and enforce compliance with all safety policies and regulations including, biohazard management, annual Environmental Health & Safety Inspection, and serving as the Biosafety and Fire Safety Coordinator for the lab.

• Act as primary resource for a variety of lab relationships, including coordinating equipment maintenance and repair with outside vendors, and interfacing with HHMI staff, host institution staff, and serving as the lab emergency point of contact

• Facilitate distribution of requested materials such as plasmids to collaborators and outside scientists and assist with MTAs

• Welcome and train incoming lab team members

• Perform routine equipment maintenance, including on centrifuges, incubators, and imagers, and scheduling preventative maintenance with the manufacturer on FPLC, freezers, and other large equipment

• Renew and amend lab permits and protocols as necessary throughout the year

• Manage lab schedules and help organize visits by post-doc candidates

• Maintain and update laboratory website

Research - 50%:

• Perform molecular biology experiments in close collaboration with the PI, a post-doctoral fellow or graduate student, with the opportunity of acquiring an independent project over time

• Perform bench level experiments such as molecular cloning and cell culture

• Oversee and maintain lab stocks of chemicals, common reagents, and cell lines

• Work efficiently and cooperatively with a team of researchers and proactively support all aspects of our lab's research.

• Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions

• Perform other duties as assigned

Preferred Qualifications:

• B.A./B.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or related discipline

• Prior research experience molecular and/or cellular biology

• Expertise with molecular cloning is a strong plus

• Experience handling lab administrative matters preferred

• Strong writing and computer skills, including demonstrated proficiency with the G-Suite and Microsoft Office applications

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to use good judgment in managing deadlines and responding to inquiries

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.