Technical Assistant I - Jain Lab (Relocation Assistant Available!)

Classification:

Exempt

Job Family:

Technicians

Reports to:

Member

Job Description Summary:

Performs bench level experiments and small independent research projects to support scientific research objectives of a lab or group. Analyzes experimental data, addresses methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and reports data to supervisor.

ABOUT WHITEHEAD INSTITUTE

Located in the biotech and biomedical research hub of Kendall Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Whitehead Institute is a world-renowned non-profit research and educational institution that has pushed the cutting-edge of research since 1982. Whitehead Institute is affiliated with MIT through its members, who hold faculty positions at MIT. Click here to learn more.

The Jain lab at Whitehead Institute is looking for a motivated individual to join our growing team in Technical Assistant I position. Our lab studies the role of RNA-RNA interactions in cellular organization and human disease. Like proteins, RNA in the cell also folds into defined secondary and tertiary structures. Defective RNA folding and aberrant RNA-RNA interactions may result in cellular dysfunction. We previously identified that aberrant RNA aggregation contributes to genetic neurological diseases such as Huntington disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We use a variety of biophysical and biochemical approaches to examine RNA folding at a molecular and cellular level.

More details about our recent research can be found here: ajainlab.org

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

Designs and performs bench level experiments and independent research projects to support scientific research objectives of a lab or group. Analyzes experimental data, addresses methodological problems in experimental protocols and results, and reports data to supervisor. Conducts laboratory tasks and organization to ensure the smooth operation of the group. Uses discretion in prioritizing and organizing workflow and in optimizing methodologies and results.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• Independently operates lab equipment and prepares and orders necessary supply stocks. May work with vendors to address equipment, reagent, or supply issues.
• Documents, compiles, and assists in interpreting experimental data. Reports data to supervisor in oral and written reports.
• May assist with determining the order of research processes that best support essential project goals.
• May consult scientific literature as needed.
• Other tasks as required or assigned.
• Desired experimental skills:
  • Cloning and engineering of DNA constructs
  • Mammalian cell culture and transgene expression
  • Biochemical assays, gel electrophoresis, immunoblot
  • Light microscopy, and imaging data analysis

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in bioengineering, biology or a field directly related to the work.
• Must have 1+ years of experience in a biomedical research laboratory
• Proficiency in basic lab techniques and principles of molecular/cell biology
• Excellent record keeping and organization skills
• Experience in microscopy/sequencing data analysis a plus
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, strong organizational skills required.

Whitehead Institute is an E-Verify employer

https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf