Technical Research Assistant I BWH Neurology

Working under supervision of the principal investigator and according to established hospital departmental policies and procedures and/or specific instructions, performs routine laboratory experiments, including but not exclusively involving antibody purification, flow cytometry, ELISAs, PCRs. Records test results in an orderly fashion and maintains accurate laboratory notes.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Will be required to learn to operate Flow Cytometry machinery.
• Will be required to perform routine immunology techniques such as ELISA, western blot and basic procedures on laboratory animals; and molecular biology techniques like RNA purification, DNA purification and cloning.
• Will be required to handle mice including treatment administration (intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, and intravenous injections) and behavioral tests.
• Will be required to maintain mouse colonies and to keep record of mouse strains and breeding.
• Will be required to perform cell culture, including culture and maintenance of various cell lines and hybridomas.
• Will be required to perform antibody purification and validation on a routine basis.
• Maintains and orders supplies when needed. Assists with cleaning and maintaining the laboratory area in a neat and orderly condition.
• Maintains laboratory notebook of daily activities including all experiments and procedures.
• Conducts literature searches and review, compiling information from journals and suggesting uses of new techniques of research and laboratory techniques, consulting with other researchers and techniques to exchange information.
• Attends courses in safety procedures for the handling, storage and disposal of biohazardous, infectious, radioactive and toxic substances, ensuring that all laboratory activities are carried out in compliance with such procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned or as position requires.

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor of Science degree in biological sciences. A knowledge of immunology is preferred, but not essential.

Familiarity with basic laboratory instruments, equipment and scientific procedures usually acquired through coursework.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Must have a sound understanding of laboratory practices and procedures, usually acquired through one to three months on-the-job training.
• Must have good manual dexterity.
• Knowledge of computer programs, databases, etc.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize a variety of tasks.
• Must possess careful attention to detail.
• Must be capable of following detailed protocols and use calculations to design and carry out experiments.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism and respect for subjects' rights and individual needs.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Normal research laboratory environment. May be exposed to radioactive and other biohazardous materials including human blood products, under controlled conditions. Minimal amount of heavy lifting or bending involving moving of laboratory equipment and supplies.

EEO Statement

BWH 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.