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When you join the UMass Chan Medical School team, you join us in advancing together to improve the health and well-being of our diverse communities throughout Massachusetts and across the US and the world. Together, we lead in education, research, health care delivery, and public service. Your life’s work is more than a career. It’s an expression of your passion, intellect, skill, and drive. UMass Chan's commitment to excellence, innovation, competitive benefits, and work-life integration will allow you to build a professionally rewarding career as we work together to better or improve the health of people around the globe.

R&D Associate I - Product Discovery
Job Number: 2023-44406
Category: Biotechnology
Location: Worcester, MA
Shift: Day
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non Exempt
Business Unit: UMass Chan Medical School
Department: School - Medicine - W710000
Job Type: Full-Time
Union Code: Non Union Position-W25-Non Unit Classified
Num. Openings: 1
Post Date: May 14, 2024

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION: 

The R&D Associate I - Product Discovery will be responsible for research and/or development to support early discovery and pre-clinical development of novel biotherapeutics. The ideal candidate will function in a cutting-edge laboratory environment as part of a multi-disciplinary team of protein engineers, immunologists, molecular biologists, and protein biochemists to discover novel therapeutics with opportunity to develop cGMP or GLP compliant skills in an industrial laboratory setting.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Drive translational research and development efforts by conducting experiments alongside R&D Scientists in the drug discovery department.
  • Conduct a wide range of biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology techniques to express, purify and characterize drug candidates (e.g. DNA/RNA isolation, plasmid construction, PCR, Octet, HPLC, mammalian cell culture, transient and stable transfections).
  • Perform in vitro assays to evaluate efficacy of drug candidates (e.g. ELISA, flow cytometry, cell proliferation, anti-microbial assays).
  • Assist experimental set up in small rodent animal models.
  • Analyze data and generate thorough documentation of work according to MassBiologics standards. Present written/oral reports in team meetings or other project meetings.
  • Maintain laboratory environment following all precautions required for a BSL2/BSL2+ setting. Troubleshoot malfunctioning equipment and techniques within scope of training.
  • Effectively communicate and work cross-functionally as a part of internal and external project teams.
  • Performs additional job related duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Requires a bachelors degree in Biology or related field.
  • Minimum 0-2 years of relevant experience
  • Ability to follow instructions precisely , recognize deviations, and recommend corrective action within scope of training
  • Ability to troubleshoot within scope of training
  • Computer literate and proficient in MS Word, Excel and other relevant electronic systems.
  • Strong time management and organizational skills. Demonstrated ability to multitask and consistently meet deadlines
  • Ability to apply scientific principles to problem solving
  • Possesses well developed attention to detail, ability to maintain accurate records and excellent proofreading skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with others
  • Demonstrated initiative through past experience
  • Working knowledge on protein purification and hands-on experience on chromatography workstations preferred
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team
  • May require individual to work extended hours on occasion to meet business needs

Posting Disclaimer:
This job posting outlines the primary responsibilities and qualifications for the role but is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and expectations may evolve in response to the needs of the department and the broader institution.
In alignment with our commitment to pay transparency, the base salary range for this position is listed above (exclusive of benefits and retirement). At UMass Chan Medical School, final base salary offers are determined based on a combination of factors, including your skills, education, and relevant experience. We also consider internal equity to ensure fair and consistent compensation across our teams.
Please note that the range provided reflects the full base salary range for this position. Offers are typically made within the midrange to allow for future growth and development within the role.
In addition to base pay, UMass Chan offers a comprehensive Total Rewards package, which includes paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and participation in a 401(a)-retirement plan, with the option to contribute to a voluntary 403(b) plan.
UMass Chan welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.