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GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION:  

Research Associate in the Laboratory of Dr. Gabriella Boulting, PhD 

Our laboratory studies what makes the human brain different from that of other animals. There are countless differences that influence how our brain works in unique ways, starting with the most basic: our DNA sequence! Our genetic sequence determines the rules for how our brains develop and adapt new functions in response to experience.  

We are a neuro-genetics laboratory with a hybrid wet lab / dry lab environment. We apply human stem cells and cutting-edge single cell, molecular, and genomic approaches to discover novel aspects of human neuroscience. This position is an excellent training opportunity and may include a subset of the following experimental techniques/analyses, depending on the candidates’ experience: Human stem cell culture and neuronal differentiation, FACS, viral gene delivery, molecular cloning, single-cell RNAseq, ChIPseq, RNAseq, Cut&Tag, Hi-C, ATACseq, MERFISH, processing of human and animal brain samples, molecular biochemistry, bioinformatic and genomic data analysis.  

We are part of the highly collaborative and innovative Neurobiology Department (https://www.umassmed.edu/neurobiology/ ) and the greater biomedical community of the UMass Chan Medical School: https://www.umassmed.edu/ . 

 We are searching for responsible, enthusiastic, and creative team members to build our growing research program. 

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.

Dr. Gabriella Boulting laboratory

What makes the human brain different from that of other animals?

There are countless differences that influence how our brain works in unique ways, starting with the most basic: our DNA sequence!

Our genetic sequence determines the rules for how our brains develop and adapt new functions in response to the environment. We apply human stem cells and cutting-edge single cell, molecular, and genomic approaches to discover novel aspects of human neuroscience.

We are searching for enthusiastic and creative individuals with an outstanding work ethic to help build and maintain our growing laboratory and research program.