Research Technician

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Ragon Institute is a unique, innovative, and collaborative research center at the forefront of biomedical science. Founded by Massachusetts General Hospital, MIT, and Harvard, our vision is to harness the power of the immune system to prevent and cure human disease on a global scale. This vision is pursued and advanced every day by a group of highly motivated individuals. The Ragon Institute depends upon collaboration, compassion, dedication, and innovation at every level. We are a results-oriented organization seeking people who embrace these values, thrive in teams, and want to work in a dynamic environment.

We are seeking a full-time research technician to assist with human immunology research that aims to define molecular mechanisms of T cell dysfunction in people with HIV (PWH). Fundamental knowledge attained from our research will inform therapeutic strategies to elicit sustained remission of HIV and may also be translatable toward the treatment of other chronic diseases. The successful candidate will join a diverse team of researchers under the supervision of principal investigators Bruce Walker, M.D. and David Collins, Ph.D. The position offers exciting opportunities for scientific and professional development at the intersection of immunology, virology, biotechnology, and medicine in our new, world-class research facility in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Previous technicians from our group have pursued careers as researchers and/or physicians via subsequent placement into competitive programs and positions.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Under the direction of the principal investigators and in collaboration with other team members, the applicant will be trained to independently perform daily research activities, including:

• Perform experiments utilizing standard techniques for isolation, cryopreservation, and sterile culture of immune cells from clinical blood and tissue specimens, antibody staining and flow cytometry, extraction and next-generation sequencing of DNA/RNA, standard and quantitative PCR, immunospot, molecular cloning, gene editing and overexpression
• Actively participate in optimization and troubleshooting of new techniques
• Maintain detailed documentation of experimental procedures and data
• Assist with analysis, interpretation, and preparation of data for presentation and publication
• Assure quality control of laboratory equipment, reagents, and cells
• Order and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents
• Read and discuss relevant primary literature
• Attend and participate in weekly laboratory meetings

EDUCATION:

• BS/BA in sciences

EXPERIENCE:

• 0 - 2 years of experience required

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Highly self-motivated with an appetite for learning, discovery, and scientific development
• Prior education and/or experience in biological sciences and biomedical research
• Scientific interest in human immunology and infectious diseases
• Commitment to honesty, integrity, communication, professionalism and respect for others
• Ability to reliably perform job duties both as a team member and independently
• Demonstrated time management skills and excellent attention to detail
• Desire to remain in the position for one to two years
• Prior experience with sterile cell culture and other relevant techniques is preferred
• Limited scheduling flexibility may occasionally be required for completion of experiments

Please include with your application a curriculum vitae, contact information for three professional references, and a cover letter expressing your interest in the position and highlighting your unique qualifications. Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.