Research Assistant

About the role

Under the direction of the iPS core facility manager, carries out independently the daily activities of the core facility, including reprogramming and gene editing.

Responsibilities

• Derives, maintains and distributes induced pluripotent stem cell lines.
• Characterizes new lines by standard molecular biological techniques (including DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, RT-PCR) and by immunophenotypic analysis.
• Performs quality control of cell lines.
• Performs gene targeting in pluripotent stem cell lines.
• Screens of targeted lines using standard molecular biological techniques (including DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing).
• Expands and distributes engineered pluripotent stem cell lines.
• Performs quality control of engineered cell lines.
• May occasionally instruct others in basic laboratory techniques.
• Performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment, ordering and keeping an inventory of laboratory supplies.

Requirements

This position requires a strong commitment and the willingness to learn new skills. This position offers the opportunity to work in a stimulating environment in close proximity to several of the pioneers in the field using state-of-the-art facilities.

Qualifications

• At least two years of college-level coursework in biology or related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field preferred.
• A background in cellular and molecular biology also strongly recommended.
• Previous experience with molecular biological, cell culture and sterile laboratory techniques is preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills and great attention to detail is an essential component of this position.
• Ability to work in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
• Some weekend flexibility will be required.
• Computer experience is desirable.

Skills

The position requires a strong commitment and the willingness to learn new skills. This position offers the opportunity to work in a stimulating environment in close proximity to several of the pioneers in the field using state-of-the-art facilities.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Housing: Various housing options available through the university.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.