Research Assistant I

The Sharpe laboratory at Harvard Medical School seeks a highly motivated individual to support research in mouse and human tumor immunology, and/or autoimmunity. Under the supervision of the Lab Manager and/or senior trainees, this individual will perform a wide range of highly sophisticated laboratory techniques, working closely with fellows and students to analyze the functions of immunoregulatory pathways. This includes immunological techniques (immune cell isolation, assays of stromal, myeloid, and T cell function, cytokine ELISA assays, multiparameter flow cytometry, handling recombinant DNA vectors), molecular biology procedures (PCR, RNA and/or DNA preparation from tissues, as well as bulk and single-cell RNASeq). Animal work is required (measuring tumors, monitoring disease scores, weighing mice, survival bleeding, i.p. / s.c. / i.v. injections, generating chimeras), mouse husbandry (colony maintenance, genotyping). This individual may also handle primary human samples (tissue dissociation, cellular isolation, immunological assays). They will analyze and summarize data, organize into lab notebooks, and report experimental results weekly. This individual may assist with troubleshooting and optimizing new techniques. This individual will also assist with lab organization, maintenance of lab equipment, and lab safety activities. The successful candidate will demonstrate initiative and be invested in the success of research projects. They will have enthusiasm for taking a hands-on, problem-solving approach, learning on the job, and collaboration. They should possess an outstanding academic record and strong communication skills, demonstrate innovative and analytical thinking, and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team.

Working Conditions: Research laboratory, computer work

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline. 
• At least one year of related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related discipline is desireable. 
• Willingness to work with mice.
• Demonstrated abilities in molecular biology techniques, cell culture, and/or animals preferred, but not required. 
• Must possess strong oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills. 
• Must possess high level of initiative and investment in the success of research projects. 
• Ability to maintain careful records of experiments; detail-oriented; meticulous work habits; possess strong organizational, analytical and communication skills; can take direction and work well as part of a team.

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: This is a two-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal, Pre-Placement Medical Evaluation
• Other Information: Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 052. 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.