SEARCH CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION:  

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator or designee, the Research Associate I performs a variety of complex research experiments.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform complex laboratory experiments
• Conduct in-depth analysis of research experiments
• Interpret data, form conclusions, and decide on and plan the next experiments to be done with a high degree of independence
• Write standard operating procedures, schedule work, analyze data, maintain accurate records, and write reports
• Compile and analyze data. Perform computations using image analysis software, spreadsheets, graphing, and curve fitting software
• May modify protocols and be responsible for a single, independent research project
• May assist with budget and/or operational aspects of grant and contract proposals
• Assist in writing the text of scientific publications and grants.  Review literature
• Train new laboratory personnel, students, and collaborators
• Comply with all safety and infection control standards
• Perform other duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

• Bachelor’s degree in the Biological Sciences, or equivalent experience
• 3 years of relevant research experience
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Strong ability to analyze complex visual data in a quantitative and objective manner
• Judgment and action skills required to solve commonly encountered problems

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, or designee

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: 

May functionally supervise aides, technicians, and associates

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens.

Summary of Position

We currently have an opening for a Research Associate to join the laboratory of Dr. Michelle Kelliher at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. The Kelliher lab studies how leukemia develops using genetically engineered mouse models and patient derived xenografts. We are focused on understanding the molecular and cellular basis of chemoresistance and relapse in an effort to develop novel therapeutic approaches. Our lab uses innovative mouse modeling approaches and single cell sequencing and chromatin accessibility methods to identify features of leukemic stem or initiating cells thought to mediate relapse. This position offers opportunities for career development, including possibly designing and executing independent experiments which could lead to publication.

Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively to assist Postdoctoral fellows and graduate students with research projects
• Perform a variety of laboratory experiments using both routine and special techniques, including:
• Molecular biology procedures such as DNA purification, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting
• Cell culture work 
• Mouse colony management, breeding, and genotyping
• Mouse experiments, injections and organ harvesting
• Routine histology, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence
• Flow cytometry analysis 
• Collect, record, and analyze data
• Assist in the training of others
• Write and provide input to improve current procedures, protocols, and/or methods
• Prepare laboratory reagents, buffers, media, and other general lab stocks
• Assist with lab organizational tasks, including lab equipment setup and lab supply ordering and purchasing

 Job Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology or a related scientific discipline
• A minimum of two years of experience in a research laboratory setting, with experience in molecular biology and cell culture techniques preferred 
• Mouse experience is highly desired but not required
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction
• Ability to work in a team-focused environment
• Excellent communication and computer skills