Research Assistant I - Vaccine Research

About the role

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant supports the vaccine research lab by performing a wide range of routine and specialized laboratory procedures in a GxP (GCLP)–compliant environment. The role involves conducting molecular and cell biology assays on human, non-human primate, and rodent specimens following established protocols, including blood and tissue processing, cell isolation, cell culture, and immunoassays such as ELISA, ELISPOT, and intracellular cytokine staining.

Success in this role requires speed, precision, and a strong understanding of underlying scientific principles, as well as the ability to perform duties with increased independence, analytical capability, and problem-solving skills. The position demands excellent organizational and communication abilities, effective time management, confidentiality, accountability, and meticulous attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Conducts routine tests following established procedures, which may include assays, DNA sequencing, tissue culture, protein purification, Southern blotting, PCR analysis, electrophoresis, and chromatography.
• Researches and collects basic study data through monitoring devices and maintains daily logs/basic records of methodologies and test results. With supervision, summarizes data and interprets results using descriptive statistics and basic hypothesis testing.
• Performs literature searches and library investigations as they relate to the research and/or as assigned.
• Demonstrates flexibility in performing principal duties and responsibilities as research projects evolve.
• Attends Medical Center lectures regarding all safety requirements/conditions. Attends courses, lectures, and conferences to further knowledge of research.
• May demonstrate routine laboratory tasks to students and other research personnel.
• Performs quality control analyses, accurately documents data, and interprets results.
• Maintains the specimen management system and document control system.
• Operates, monitors, and maintains moderate- to high-complexity laboratory equipment while ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and biosafety policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or related scientific field required.
• 0-1 years related work experience required.
• Experience with computer systems required, including web-based applications and some Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Access).

Skills

• Decision Making: Ability to make decisions based on specific instructions, standard practices, and established procedures with little or no supervision.
• Problem Solving: Ability to address routine, somewhat repetitive problems by following clear directions and identifying opportunities for process improvements.
• Independence of Action: Ability to follow general instructions and procedures; work is monitored by supervisor/manager.
• Written Communications: Ability to read and write in English to understand basic safety instructions, take direction, communicate effectively with staff, and respond to routine questions.
• Oral Communications: Ability to understand spoken English to follow basic safety instructions and take direction; communicate effectively in basic English with patients, families, and medical center staff.
• Knowledge: Ability to demonstrate basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures and apply them in routine situations.
• Teamwork: Ability to interact respectfully with employees, professional staff, and/or external contacts to offer ideas, identify issues, obtain information, or deliver services.
• Customer Service: Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude and respond to requests in a timely and respectful manner.
• Ability to plan and organize technical work, manage multiple simultaneous tasks, and uphold high-quality standards.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of hematology, immunology, and relevant laboratory principles and procedures.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $19.23 - $26.44 per hour. Actual compensation is determined based on factors such as seniority, education, training, relevant experience, relevant certifications, geography of work location, job responsibilities, or other applicable factors permissible by law. Compensation may exceed the base hourly rate depending on shift differentials, call pay, premium pay, overtime pay, and other additional pay practices.

Schedule

Light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Some elements of the job are sedentary, but the employee will be required to stand for periods of time or move throughout the hospital campus.

Beth Israel Lahey Health requires all staff to be vaccinated against influenza (flu) as a condition of employment.