Research Lab Tech 1 - Optical Imaging In Translational Research (Kumar Research)

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator the Research Technician will provide laboratory preclinical and clinical translational research assistance for optical imaging projects related to the detection, diagnosis and surgery of various diseases including cancer, neuropathology and cardiac disease within the TOMI laboratory of the Toth Center at MEE. The position is based at the Toth Center at MEE, under the supervision of Dr. Anand Kumar.

The position will offer an opportunity to participate in cutting edge research in optical and multi-modal imaging in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team of investigators at the Toth Center-MEE and in several clinical departments within MEE and MGH. The RT will work independently under the general direction of the PI to coordinate human and animal research studies and assist in data analysis and research reporting. On the clinical research side, the RT will be responsible for research subject pre-screening, scheduling, enrollment, and execution of measurements. Further, he/she will help prepare and maintain human subject research (IRB) protocols and associated documentation. A major component of the position is performing data analysis, and also performing laboratory-based measurements for instrument validation and testing as well as small animal fluorescence tomography applications. The RT will also have an opportunity to help the PI and other members of the team with developing new data processing and analysis methods.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: In order of importance, list essential areas of responsibility, major job duties, special projects and key objectives for this position. These items should be evaluated throughout the year and included in the written annual evaluation. This section should be completed as a bulleted list and explain how the role is performed.

• Assist in the execution of measurements in both a laboratory and clinical setting

• Assist in the building and testing of novel research instruments

• Conduct data analysis and processing using a variety of processing tools, generally implemented in the MATLAB environment

• Co-ordinate recruitment and clinical measurements in conjunction with clinical collaborators. This includes communicating with study subjects.

• Maintain research data, patient files, regulatory binders and study databases

• Prepare reports and presentations

• Participate in preparing manuscripts for publication.

• Prepare IRB submissions and amendments and help maintaining documentation for the IRB

• Collecting and maintain subject information database

• Proof-reading and editing of manuscripts and grant applications

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES REQUIRED: This section should be a bulleted list of minimum requirements explaining the skills (what the individual is trained for) and competencies (measurable as defined by the job) necessary to perform the job.

Prior programming experience is preferred, prior experience with MATLAB is a plus; note that a data analysis exercise in Matlab or another language of the candidate's choice might be included as part of the interview process

• An engineering or physical science background is preferred, but candidates with a background in biology, chemistry or medicine who have an interest in transitioning to biomedical engineering are encouraged to apply.

• Ability to make independent effective decisions

• The ability to work with minimal supervision as well as part of an integrated research team

• Excellent judgment and ability to interpret information and protocol requirements

• Excellent organizational, oral and written communication skills

• Detail oriented, creative, able to maintain accurate records

• High degree of professionalism, ability to interact with study subject and clinical collaborators

• Capable of handling confidential information with discretion

• Able to prioritize multiple tasks and handle fluctuating priorities and deadlines

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The position working at a computer, performing laboratory measurements with animals, participating in human subject interaction and taking measurements both at the Toth Center and in other areas of the MEE and MGH, including in operating room environments. Flexible working hours are occasionally required due to limitations of accessing research instrumentation in clinical areas (generally in the evenings, but, in rare occasions, on the weekends as well).

Candidate must have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. One year of direct experience preferred.