Classification:

Exempt

Job Family:

Technicians

Reports to:

Whitehead Fellow

Job Description Summary:

The Raguram Lab is seeking a highly motivated Technical Assistant to join our team. In the Raguram Lab, we investigate mechanisms of intercellular biomolecule transfer to inform the development of new methods for delivering macromolecular therapeutics into cells. Specifically, we study how viruses, vesicles, and other related cell-derived bioparticles become loaded with different molecular cargos and how these processes can be modulated to improve macromolecular delivery. The Technical Assistant will work closely with Dr. Aditya Raguram (principal investigator) and will be expected to perform a wide range of experiments to support the lab’s work, including molecular cloning, viral vector production and purification, CRISPR screens, and high-throughput sequencing. Additionally, the Technical Assistant will have the opportunity to lead independent research projects that could result in first-author publications. This is an ideal opportunity for recent graduates who are looking to gain additional research experience before attending graduate or medical school.

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

The Technical Assistant will participate in and eventually lead research projects to characterize and develop new macromolecular delivery methods. The Technical Assistant will design and execute experiments, analyze experimental data, address methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and report data to the principal investigator.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• Conduct bench-level experiments and independent research projects under the mentorship of the Principal Investigator.

• Perform standard molecular biology experiments, e.g. PCR, plasmid preparation, RNA purification, molecular cloning.

• Perform mammalian cell tissue culture experiments, including the production and purification of viral vectors.

• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment to complete investigations.

• Prepare, order, and maintain stocks of necessary reagents, solutions, and supplies. May work with vendors to address equipment, reagent, or supply issues.

• Document, compile, and assist in interpreting experimental data. Report data to supervisor in oral and written reports.

• Consult scientific literature as needed.

• Other tasks as required or assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• For Technical Assistant I: Bachelor’s degree in biology or a field directly related to the work. Must have 1+ years of experience working in a research laboratory (part-time work as undergrad is acceptable).

• For Technical Assistant II: Bachelor’s degree in biology or a field directly related to the work. Must have 2 years of experience working full-time in a research laboratory. (Master's degree, at least one year of directly related, full time lab experience).

• Proficiency in basic lab techniques and principles of molecular biology required.

• Prior experience with molecular cloning, tissue culture, and viral vectors preferred.

• Knowledge of various scientific databases and publications preferred.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, strong organizational skills.

• Excellent collaborative and interpersonal skills.

Whitehead provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the Institute reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, and internal peer equity. This pay range represents base pay only and does not include any other benefits or compensation.

• Technical Assistant I Pay: 47,500

• Technical Assistant II Pay Range: 48,000 – 55,000

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