Research Technician- Moura Silva Lab - Massachusetts General Hospital : Job Details

The lab of Dr. Hernandez Moura Silva at the Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT, and Harvard has an opportunity for a Research Technician to join his lab. Immune cells are known for helping our body to fight infections. However, immune cells are present even in tissues that are not typically exposed to potential infections. This suggests that immune cells actively support normal tissue function beyond host defense. In his lab, Hernandez Moura Silva seeks to understand “non-immune” mechanisms mediated by immune cells that support normal tissue function. By understanding the defining principles of homeostasis, he hopes to develop new strategies to tune molecular pathways to reestablish normal tissue function in pathological conditions, such as type II diabetes.

About the Research Technician role:The Research Technician will join a multifaceted and exciting research team at the forefront of macrophage cellular immunology and perform experiments to characterize how the activity of these cells impacts the functionality of the white adipose tissue and systemic metabolism. Additionally, the position offers opportunities to be involved in projects to develop new tools to manipulate macrophages in vivo. One long-term objective of the lab is to develop new strategies to combat metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. The position offers an exceptional opportunity for scientific growth, with access to groundbreaking facilities and a terrific work environment. The candidate will work closely with other members of the lab to ensure high-quality and timely delivery of results to meet project timelines.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
• The opportunity to learn new scientific approaches through access to cutting-edge facilities and expand your knowledge and skills.
• Joining the vibrant Ragon Institute and larger MGH/MIT/Harvard research community.
• Access to HHMI's Udemy on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars taught by members of our learning and organization development team.
• Guided mentoring that will help transition into biomedical PhD programs, MDPhD and MD programs.

What you'll do:

• Under the general direction of senior members of the lab team, independently carry out daily activities and divide efforts between independent projects and lab organization.
• Actively participate in scientific activities such as seminars, lab meetings, and journal club in addition to experimental obligations.
• Prepare basic solutions and perform base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. – pipetting, cell and tissue culture, etc.).
• Support animal experiments (with mice) through genotyping and dissection.
• Perform assays using standard techniques (antibody staining, flow cytometry, microscopy, DNA/RNA extraction and analysis, standard and quantitative PCR, ELISA, cloning).
• Analyze experimental results and troubleshoot methods to improve research protocols.
• Maintain organized records, back-ups and documentation of all experimental procedures.
• Report results to the investigator or other senior lab team members as the need arises in verbal and written form.
• Cell/tissue processing, culture and maintenance.
• Independently perform routine and non-routine experiments that are moderate to complex.
• Assist Lab Manager in cleaning and maintaining laboratory equipment and instrumentation (e.g., biosafety cabinets, incubators, and other equipment); monitor levels of and package biological waste for disposal.

What you bring:

• A bachelor's degree in biology or a closely related subject area is required.
• Previous hands-on experience working in an academic research laboratory environment is required.
• Proficiency in basic lab techniques and principles of molecular biology such as DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, standard and real-time PCR is strongly preferred.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and documentation skills.
• You must have good interpersonal skills and ability to work well with not only lab members but also with facilities and administrative personnel.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• A high degree of motivation, proactiveness, and initiative.
• Ability to present data at internal lab meetings and conferences.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of the team.
• Some occasional weekend or evening flexibility may be required.
• Positive attitude with an eagerness to learn and grow.
• Open to work with laboratory mice. Experience working with mice is preferred but not required.
• Proficiency and/or demonstrated ability to learn computer software platforms.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.