Research Lab Tech II - Histopathology & Machine Learning

POSITION SUMMARY:

We study the human temporal bone histopathology underlying hearing loss and balance disorders, as well as facial nerve conditions. We employ 3D reconstructions and apply machine learning algorithms as well as use immunohistochemical and microscopy techniques to analyze the integrity and distribution of spiral ganglion neurons and to analyze the pathology of various elements of the inner ear in a quantified or semi - quantified fashion. This will be performed on a specialized collection of temporal bones that have been procured and processed from patients who had clinical/ audiologic data collected during life. These analyses will be related to audiometric and clinical data, as needed.

The research technician will be involved in all aspects of temporal bone analyses: microscopy, immunohistochemistry, machine learning, 3-D reconstructions, data analyses, summarizing clinical and audiologic data, and presenting and writing manuscripts.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Read, analyze and summarize published literature

• Review of donor medical histories and audiologic data

• Assist in design and then execute temporal bone analyses, including advanced microscopy, immunohistochemistry, 3-D reconstruction

• Apply machine-learning programming, as needed

• Undertake relevant coursework if required by mentor

• Attend relevant meeting

• Meet regularly with mentor to review project progress and milestone

• Plan and deliver a seminar on the project

• Take administrative (inventory, purchasing, etc. ) responsibilities in the lab when necessary

• Write reports or submit manuscript(s) to a peer-reviewed journal describing the project and result

• Additional duties as assigned

• Performs routine and non-routine laboratory tests and procedures as directed and required by the specific research project following prescribed protocol.

• Carries out designated research tasks and projects that may require familiarity with a variety of techniques and equipment. Makes use of library research, structured interviews, data processing and/or other investigative techniques.

• Collects, organizes, and summarizes acquired data using scientific techniques, including computer programs.

• Makes periodic reports of project status to supervisor; assists in judging the validity of the data obtained.

• If applicable, after appropriate training, uses radioactive, infectious, bio-hazardous, and/or toxic substances.

• If applicable, stays current in safety procedures for handling, storage and disposal of bio-hazardous, infectious, radioactive, and/or toxic substances.

• Assists with planning specific research procedures, coordinating schedules of tests and procedures.

• Conducts literature searches; reviews and compiles information from journals and suggests use for new techniques to supervisor.

• May demonstrate basic laboratory techniques to other research staff, students, or fellows as necessary.

• Attends meetings as required.

• Enhances professional growth and development through educational programs, seminars, conferences, and/or professional affiliations. Consults with other researchers to exchange information.

• Performs other laboratory related functions as required or directed.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Lab setting. Job may require performance of tasks that involve potential for exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Work requires a bachelors' degree, with 1-2 years related experience and/or training, or equivalent combination or education and experience. Requires intermediate math skills and ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry; solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form; read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations; write reports and correspondence; speak effectively before groups of employees.

This position would be applicable for an individual interested an academic career, before, during or after medical school or residency.

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES:

• High attention to detail
• Practices safety at all times
• Comfortable with various levels of responsibility with a desire to pursue additional learning opportunities and develop/take on new projects
• Professional and compassionate demeanor
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a fluency in English with the ability to effectively communicate with a variety of audiences
• Must be highly accountable and able to work autonomously as well as part of a team

ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS:

• The employee shall interact at times with other investigators, lab staff, and medical professionals and shall maintain professionalism
• Strict adherence to company guidelines pertaining to signed agreement on confidentiality of information, compliance with HIPAA, and adheres to organizational hierarchy

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Able to perform essential functions.

EEO Statement

EEO Statement

Massachusetts Eye and Ear is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, sex, pregnancy or conditions related to pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs