SEARCH CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

POSITION SUMMARY: 

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

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Conducts in-depth analysis of research experiments
• Performs complex laboratory experiments
• Interprets data, forms conclusion, and decides on and plans next experiments to be done with a high degree of independence
• Compiles and analyzes data and performs computations using image analysis software, spreadsheets, graphing, and curve fitting software
• May modify protocols and be responsible for a single, independent research project
• Assists in writing the text of scientific publications and grants. Reviews literature
• Trains new laboratory personnel, students, and collaborators
• Maintains laboratory supplies and equipment
• Complies with all safety and infection control standards
• Perform other duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, or equivalent 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 Lab Technicians and Aides

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 Marcus Ruscetti, Ph.D. at University of Massachusetts Medical Center. The Ruscetti lab is studying how solid tumors, and in particular prostate and pancreatic cancers, escape immune surveillance during disease progression, and trying to restore tumor suppressive pathways that are lost early during tumor formation for cancer immunotherapy. Our lab uses innovative mouse modeling approaches, combined with genome editing, screening, and sequencing modalities, to dissect and manipulate tumor suppressor pathways, to elucidate tumor-immune interactions, and to evaluate new drug combinations for treating aggressive solid tumors. 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 and organoid culture work
• Mouse colony management, breeding, and genotyping
• Mouse experiments, including surgical procedures, imaging, drug dosing, 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
• Prepares 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