Research Technician - Translational Hearing Loss Research

Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals to advance our mission as a not-for-profit supporting patient care, research, teaching, and community service. We strive to provide exceptional care and believe high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries.

About the role

We are a translational research laboratory focused on developing therapies for hearing loss and are seeking a full-time Research Assistant to join our team. This role does not require patient care.

Candidates who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree have a grace period of six months from their hire date (up to 1 year if starting per diem) to provide degree equivalency verification.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures.
• Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed.
• Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results.
• Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods.
• Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports.
• Work closely with research fellows on a variety of projects aimed at understanding and treating hearing loss.
• Gain hands-on experience and training in molecular biology techniques, including:
  • PCR
  • DNA extraction and plasmid construction
  • Gel electrophoresis
  • Cell and tissue culture
  • Protein purification
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Microscopy
  • CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing
• Participate in animal research tasks, including:
  • Animal husbandry
  • Injections
  • Dissections
  • Hearing tests
  • Minor surgical procedures
• Contribute to lab operations and management, including:
  • Assisting with IACUC and/or IRB protocol submissions and revisions
  • Helping manage the animal colony
  • Preparing shared lab reagents and solutions

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or a related field required.
• Prior research or laboratory experience preferred (1-2 years preferred).
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly motivated, organized, and capable of working independently.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.

Opportunities

• Potential to conduct independent research, based on experience and performance.
• Excellent preparation for graduate or medical school applicants.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge gene and cell-based therapies in a highly collaborative environment.

Pay

$21.00 - $29.01/hour (Grade 5). Base pay is determined by skills, relevant experience, education, certifications, and other essential factors.

Schedule

• Full-time, regular employee status.
• Scheduled weekly hours: 40.
• Work shift: Day.

Work Location

243-245 Charles Street, onsite.

To read more about our research, visit our research page. For inquiries, email zheng-yi_chen@meei.harvard.edu and include a resume.