Research Technician

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

Dr. Edlow's basic and translational research in the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology (VCRB) at Massachusetts General Hospital focuses on neurodevelopmental and metabolic programming effects of maternal immune activation in pregnancy (either by obesity, maternal high-fat diet, or viral/bacterial infections in pregnancy). The work is both with mouse models and with human samples (maternal and cord blood, placenta, breastmilk, among others). Our laboratory performs highly collaborative, multi-disciplinary research that spans the fields of developmental biology, immunology, infectious diseases, metabolism, and neuroscience.

The Research Technician reports directly to the Principal Investigator and is expected to work independently on assigned research with guidance from a higher-level lab member (e.g. Research Scientist, Postdoctoral Fellow) and/or the Principal Investigator. Experience with tissue dissection and preservation for RNA and immunohistochemical analyses, molecular techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction from tissues, and tissue sectioning and staining is preferred but not required. The Technician will assist with the laboratory's ongoing research projects studying the neurodevelopmental and metabolic programming effects of immune activation (via obesity, high-fat diet and/or viral infection) in pregnancy and lactation, using both mice and mouse tissues, and samples from human research participants (examining impacts of both viral infection and/or vaccination in pregnancy). With broad guidance from the supervisor, the Technician will learn to independently perform experiments to accomplish laboratory research goals. In addition, s/he/they will be responsible for documenting, analyzing, and reporting the results derived from mouse models and/or patient samples. The Technician may assist in the preparation of manuscripts for publication, with opportunities for authorship and mentorship in writing scientific papers if desired. The individual will also assist with gathering information needed for grant preparation and reporting and must be proficient in basic computer skills including word-processing, database and spreadsheet management, email and internet. Our laboratory is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, and we foster an environment that is inclusive and welcoming to individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Underrepresented minorities in science and medicine are encouraged to apply.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Primary responsibility of this role will be performing experiments in a biomedical research laboratory for NIH-funded research, studying the effects of maternal immune activation on embryonic brain development and offspring brain and behavior (mouse), as well as maternal viral infection and vaccination in pregnancy (human). The position requires a team-based approach between the PI, research scientist and/or postdoctoral fellows, and Technician where the Technician's input into experimental designs and protocols, and recommendations for innovation will be highly valued.

Specific skills that are sought include:

• Skill in pipetting and other basic lab techniques is required.
• Experience with mouse/rodent models, including colony management, record-keeping, timed matings, and ideally behavioral studies and/or rodent surgery. This experience is preferred but not required.
• Skill in collection, organization, management, and analysis of complex data sets including record-keeping for large animal model colonies and test results, among others.
• Skill in preparation of tables, charts, graphs, summaries, and other materials for effective presentation and publication of experimental results.
• Ability to analyze the cause and significance of unexpected experimental results and to modify or redesign techniques and methods as necessary.
• Knowledge of and experience with a variety of lab techniques, including DNA, RNA and protein extraction, quantitative PCR, western blotting, ELISA is preferred but not required.
• Experience with tissue sectioning on the cryostat and/or microtome, ideally of brain, is preferred but not required.
• Experience with brain retrieval and dissection in juvenile and adult mice is preferred but not required.
• Experience with basic histology, immunohistochemistry and microscopy techniques is preferred but not required.

The primary responsibilities for this experienced research position are as follows:

1. Assist with all aspects of a research project to study the effects of maternal immune activation in pregnancy on fetal and offspring brain development and metabolic programming. Other funded projects the technician will work on include projects investigating the impact of maternal vaccination in pregnancy and/or viral infection in pregnancy.
2. S/he is expected to conduct experiments independently in the laboratory with guidance from a supervisor and participate in the design of experiments when appropriate.
3. Animal colony maintenance and record-keeping, animal surgery, blood sampling and injections, tissue retrieval from rodents.
4. Experimental preparation, ordering lab supplies and taking regular inventory to ensure laboratory is stocked with necessary reagents.
5. Preparation of necessary solutions and chemicals.
6. Develop new experimental protocols, execute protocols of non-routine experiments, troubleshoot experimental problems and provide alternative approaches.
7. Maintain quality control of all research efforts.
8. Maintain detailed records of all experiments and protocols in lab notebook form (the lab utilizes the electronic lab notebook LabArchives) on a day-to-day basis, as well as experimental results in a tabular format (e.g. Excel) to facilitate easy analysis.
9. Independently collect and frequently analyze experimental results using appropriate statistical analysis. Judge the validity and reliability of experimental data. Summarize research results, and prepare written progress reports.
10. There may be an opportunity to present research results at regional, national or international scientific conferences if desired.
11. Coordinate and collaborate with investigators in other laboratories to ensure success of ongoing or new projects. Work with scientists across a broad range of backgrounds.
12. Prepare data for grants and manuscripts. There will be the opportunity for authorship on scientific manuscripts if desired.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

1. The Technician should have a strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry. The Technician should understand theories behind assays and procedures and have the ability to identify problems and develop solutions.
2. Precise pipetting skills and basic sample preparation, including an understanding of molarity, are required.
3. The Technician should be able to work independently and display initiative to introduce new methodologies to research study.
4. The Technician would ideally have knowledge of experimental animal care and handling, especially handling and breeding of mice.
5. Ability to prepare IACUC and biosafety protocols and maintain compliance with required periodic documentation.
6. Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
7. Sound interpersonal skills and the ability to train and supervise junior laboratory members.
8. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
9. Computer competency is required.
10. Knowledge of Microsoft Office and Excel is required. Experience with Graphpad Prism and/or SPSS/SAS/R is preferred.
11. Must be resourceful, self motivated, highly organized, have good time management skills, work cooperatively with others and be willing to learn new techniques.

EDUCATION:

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  BS/BA degree with prior formal biomedical research training and/or experience working in a laboratory setting is required. Neuroscience background is preferred but not required.

  
  

EXPERIENCE:

1. Some lab experience in addition to lab coursework experience desirable but not required.
2. Some experience in small animal husbandry and surgery is highly preferred.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):

No direct reports. The Technician will be expected to provide necessary research support for other researchers and assist the training of students, postdocs and fellows.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Laboratory environment.

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.