POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator(s) and lab research supervisor, the Research Technician provides research, laboratory and safety support. Utilizes solid foundation in basic laboratory techniques in areas such as molecular biology, genetics and cell biology. Participates in the planning and execution of experiments & projects and evaluation and interpretation of results. Provides assistance to students or other individuals who may be assigned to the laboratory on a regular or temporary basis. May be assigned independent projects. Assists in providing lab infrastructure so that such studies can be performed effectively.

We seek highly motivated candidates, with a keen interest in cardiovascular biology. We are committed to providing continuous training and mentoring in a growing, collaborative environment. The ability to design and follow through on experiments independently while still being open to taking direction is desirable. Moreover, this position offers the opportunity to be mentored by two physician scientists with overlapping interests and skill sets. Thus, the candidate will benefit from opportunities to publish, as well as guidance and support for future career choices. As a member of the Boston University CVI, the candidate will also interact with both prominent physician and basic scientists. We will offer the candidate the opportunity to attend conferences and be supportive of various formative activities (clinical shadowing, seminars, and career development meetings, among others).

Applicants are required to have a bachelor's degree in the sciences, ideally including laboratory coursework in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or Genetics. Previous laboratory research experience is a plus, but not mandatory as appropriate training will be provided. Excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team, are required. This position is ideal for a new graduate intending to gain some research experience before graduate school or medical school. At least a two-year commitment is desirable. The position is currently available with a preferred start date of December 1, 2022.

Position: Research Technician

Department: Cardiology

Schedule: Part -Time / 15 hours per week

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

Please note, the functions below are representative of major duties that are typically associated with these positions. Specific responsibilities may vary based upon needs. Similarly, not all duties that have been outlined will be necessarily be required.

• Preparation of basic solutions and performance of base-level procedures (i.e., pipetting, histology, etc.).
• Isolation of genomic DNA and RNA from murine tissue and isolated cells.
• Western blotting and immunohistochemistry.
• Genotyping of mice by PCR.
• Assist and ultimately learn fresh isolation and culture of adult rat ventricular myocytes and mouse brown adipocytes.
• Fluorescence imaging and microscopy.
• Attend lab meetings.
• Maintenance of laboratory notebook or documentation.
• Understanding and application of basic scientific techniques.
• Organize and summarize acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques.
• Set up and preparation of routine experiments as directed.
• Preparation of lab reagents, chemicals, instruments, and equipment.
• Literature searches and understanding published literature.
• Maintenance and ordering lab supplies.

With mentorship, the candidate will also be able to assist with:

• Interpretation and analysis of results.
• Organizing materials for publication or presentation.
• Determining the most suitable methodology for a given experimental goal.
• Basic design and modification of protocols.
• Organizing and drafting material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts and other documents for publication and presentation.
• Experimental design.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related discipline required.
• College level courses in biology, chemistry, molecular biology, cell biology and/or laboratory sciences are also required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED:

• None

EXPERIENCE:

• One year experience in a laboratory setting preferred.
• Competent new graduates with some lab experience (via course work, internships, etc.) will be considered, however, some directly related work experience would be beneficial.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS:

• Knowledge of safe handling procedures of hazardous materials.
• Ability to learn and integrate procedures and knowledge relating to lab protocols and techniques under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and Lab Supervisor.
• Good computer skills, including data entry and use of spreadsheet and/or database.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks as dictated by the research schedule.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to exchange information with Principal Investigator and other members of the laboratory.
• Knowledge of basic laboratory techniques, (e.g. pipetting, use of microbalance), serial dilutions, and enthusiasm to learn new skills.
• Previous experience with animal studies and safe handling is beneficial.
• General understanding of translational and clinical research and the federal requirements for ethical patient treatment.
• Ability to work independently, show initiative, confidence in making decisions.
• Reliable and organized.
• Ability to work both independently and as a member of a team.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with essential computer software.
• Ability to perform multiple tasks independently.
• Analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical problems and 'troubleshoot.'
• Demonstrate competence in research techniques and methodologies.
• Experience in manipulating large data-sets (such as RNAseq) and visualization of results would be especially beneficial but not required.

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Req id: 29202