SEARCH CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

POSITION SUMMARY: 

The Department of Pathology at the University of Massachusetts Medical School located in Worcester, Massachusetts, invites applications for Research positions at the Research Technician or Research Associate level. We are seeking individuals with a BA/BS in a Biological/Life Sciences. The ideal candidate would have a background in Immunology, Virology, Molecular Biology and/ or Biochemistry; experience working in a laboratory and with techniques in these areas is preferred. We are looking for individuals with scientific curiosity, a strong work ethic and an interest in the immunological basis of health and disease. Specific research areas currently include, but are not limited to, development of immune cells and gene regulation; innate immunity, immunity to pathogens including HIV; and skin/mucosal immunology. These positions are an excellent opportunity for those applicants who have an overall interest in medical sciences and future interest in attending a graduate/medical school.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigators or designee, the Research Associate, performs a variety of specimen preparatory techniques, dry lab data collection, and high throughput assay optimization and utilization.

The goal of our research is to identify and characterize small molecule probes to map structure-function relationship of key signaling molecules of lymphocytes. Some of these probes will be used to block lymphocyte survival and function, to treat lymphoid tumors and abnormal lymphocyte expansion and associated hyper-inflammation of autoimmune disorders (e.g. Type 1 Diabetes, Rhematoid Arthristis). This individual will work closely with the laboratory Principle Investigators and senior scientists in conducting original biomedical research in the field of immunology. In addition to experimentation, the Technician’s duties will include managing laboratory supplies (inventorying stock, placing orders, and verifying receipt), assisting with equipment maintenance, attending and participating in group and project meetings.

The applicant should be highly motivated to learn and contribute to research progress, with strong communication skill. Bachelor’s Degree in Biology or a related field is required. Experience as a research technician with cell culture and/or basic molecular biology techniques including cloning and PCR are preferred but not required. This is an ideal position for students applying to graduate or medical school programs in 2-3 years as the position includes opportunity and time allocated, if desired by the candidate, to participate in graduate level coursework. Alternatively, the skill set acquired in an academic setting will also provide opportunities for industry positions.

Applicants should send a cover letter outlining experience and career goals, curriculum vitae, and contact information for references.

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. 

DESIRED SKILL SET AND EXPERIENCE:

• Judgment and action skills required to solve basic problems in experiments
• Strong communication skill
• Laboratory experience in biochemistry, molecular biology and/or immunology
• Experience with or willingness to work with animal models a plus
• Experience with high throughput screening a plus, but not required
• Work synergistically in a group setting
• Motivated and demonstrate ability to work independently and problem-solve
• Perform a variety of laboratory experiments using both routine and special techniques and methods
• Assist in more complex laboratory tasks, possibly involving small animal models
• Collect, analyze, and process laboratory samples
• Record results, organize data, and perform basic computations