Research Assistant III

Job Summary

This Research Assistant works within the Ramanathan lab, alongside graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and performs scientific experiments under minimal direction in the area of Stem Cell biology and human development. The majority of their time is spent coordinating multiple aspects of the labs research projects and carrying out laboratory experiments utilizing specific laboratory techniques and equipment while under minimal direction. There may be some coordination with labs external to Harvard to arrange transfer of lab samples as needed but travel is not required for this position. This employee may conduct some training of new lab members in scientific techniques standardized in the lab but does not directly oversee them or approve time.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• Covers multiple aspects of research project and carries out laboratory experiments utilizing specific laboratory techniques and equipment
• Manufactures cortical tissue from multiple cell lines, specifically IPS line, embryonic stem cell line, and a GMP line
• Makes genetic modifications, passaging and maintaining each of the lines (both the parental and the modified fluorescent reporter lines in each of the background)
• Cell printing, optimizing differentiation protocols optimized for each line, performing and generating tissue in each case, preparing for shipment to team members working on monkeys
• Prepares samples for single cell transcriptomics, validating using antibody staining
• Sets up shakers in incubators, monitor differentiation, and set up a pipeline
• Collaborates with other lab members on experimental design, setting up protocols and developing new laboratory techniques
• Processes, organizes, summarizes, and analyzes data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms
• May train and oversee the work of others in laboratory techniques and procedures

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in a laboratory setting on campus in Cambridge, MA. May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials, human cell culture work.

Physical Requirements

May be required to lift, move and transport related research equipment.

Basic Qualifications (required)

• College or advanced degree preferably in a related discipline; directly related work experience may substitute.

Additional Qualifications and Skills (preferred)

• 5+ years working in a biological research setting, with experience with human stem cell work is preferred.

Other Information

• This position is a 1 year term appointment from the date of hire
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retail plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.