Research Assistant II Lab

Job Summary:

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with experience in molecular and cellular biology and/or mouse husbandry to join our dynamic research team. The successful candidate will play an integral role in ongoing studies exploring how the PI3K-mTOR signaling network is altered in cancer, diabetes, and aging, and how targeting components of the signaling network might lead to new insights into how to treat or prevent these conditions. Research is particularly focused on how this signaling network is integrated with metabolic networks to control cell growth and systemic nutrient metabolism. Ongoing studies employ genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and animal models combined with unbiased systems-level tools, including genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics. For more information about Dr. Brendan Manning’s lab, please visit: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/brendan-manning/manning-lab/

The research assistant will be expected to be an integral part of the Manning lab team of researchers, actively participating in regular laboratory meetings, discussions, and publications. It is expected that s/he will contribute to the advancement of research projects central to the laboratory while at the same time advancing his or her research skills and development as a scientist. In addition to contributing to research endeavors, the appointee will also be responsible for managing daily operations of the lab.  Management duties will include maintaining laboratory equipment and common stock reagents, managing laboratory collections (e.g., mouse models, cell lines, antibodies, plasmids) and databases, updating IACUC and COMS protocols, overseeing compliance issues, designating lab duties for personnel, and onboarding/training of new personnel in standard laboratory practices and safety procedures. The research assistant will hold an integral role within the lab – not only taking on lab management responsibilities but also supporting and participating in the science.  We’re targeting someone highly organized, with excellent communication skills and a keen eye for detail.  This is an opportunity to have a tremendous impact on the running of a lab – ensuring a positive and encouraging work environment that fosters a strong and cohesive team, while also developing the skills and critical thinking abilities of a scientist.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Coordinating ordering and organization of supplies, oversight of essential equipment, inventory management of laboratory reagents, handling and processing of biological samples, use of hazardous chemicals in laboratory experiments, and general laboratory tasks. Reports directly to laboratory supervisor.
• Administer lab safety programs and monitor regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate lab orientation for new lab members and training on a variety of laboratory procedures
• Perform laboratory experiments utilizing specific and prescribed techniques and equipment
• Collect and document project data; process, organize and summarize data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms
• Shipping and receiving of laboratory supplies and reagents
• Organize and manage laboratory databases and reagent collections
• May perform routine logging and testing of samples
• Assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols as a member of a project team or together with the principal investigator
• Assist in animal-related lab experimentation and oversight, including mouse husbandry, maintaining animal protocols, complying with university regulations and best practices of animal experiments, recording animal ordering/usage, and managing the mouse colony including ordering/import of animals, breeding and genotyping
•  Communicate and coordinate with various department and school administrative personnel on lab issues
• Attend lab, department, and school meetings on behalf of the lab as needed (e.g. regular lab management meetings held by MET Research Operations Manager, journal clubs, seminars, and lab meetings)
• Participate in trainings as needed and appropriate to role
• Act as contact for some lab matters and work closely with department and central School staff on behalf of lab (e.g. operations, IT, research administration, and department administrators, IACUC, and EHS)
• Work efficiently and cooperatively with a team of researchers in support of projects
• Participate in laboratory meetings and discussions
• Performs other duties as assigned

PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of two year from date of hire with the possibility of extension. The finalist will be required to pass an occupational health screening.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• 2+ years of relevant research experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered     

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree or higher in a life science or related field
• 2+ years in a research laboratory, including work with rodent models/small animal husbandry
• Strong technical knowledge and experience in biological sciences research
• Knowledge of standard safety regulations and appropriate laboratory practices applying to research in biology and biochemistry; demonstrated ability to engage others effectively in learning and applying appropriate practices
• May be required to lift, move, and transport related laboratory materials or equipment
• May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials
• Knowledge of computer and MS office software, as well as Mac software  
• The successful candidate will possess excellent organizational skills and be able to prioritize and manage several issues simultaneously, and provide stability and reassurance in the face of unexpected events. S/he will possess strong people skills, including being a team player. Experience working with individuals with diverse backgrounds, and an openness to consider new ideas are important to success. Strong writing and oral communication skills are key to ensuring consistent and clear messaging regarding safety, compliance, and lab protocols.
• Candidate must be self-motivated, team-oriented, and able to work in a diverse laboratory environment
• Excellent organizational, communication, computer and record-keeping skills

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: Two years 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, Criminal

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country! 

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• The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions. 

• Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings. 

• This position has a 90 day orientation and review period. The O&R period will be waived for any internal Harvard employee transfers. 

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The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. 

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.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement 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 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

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.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.