Research Technician I

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

A Research Technician I position is currently available in the laboratories of Dr. Se Hoon Choi and Rudolph E. Tanzi within the Genetics and Aging Research Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. The project is centered around screening libraries of FDA-approved drugs and natural compounds for efficacy in reversing neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. Responsibilities include primarily conducting tissue culture work, sample collection (protein and nucleic acid extraction, tissue fixation, paraffin sectioning) and utilizing analytical techniques including western blotting, qPCR, immunocytochemistry, and confocal fluorescence microscopy. Effective communication and collaboration skills are essential for coordinating tasks with other laboratory members due to the complexity of the work. Candidates should exhibit a strong interest in the project, self-motivation, and initiative.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Follow routine cell culture protocols.

• Perform drug library screens in-vitro.

• Collect samples, including protein and nucleic acid extraction, tissue fixation, and paraffin sectioning.

• Utilize analytical techniques such as western blotting, qPCR, immunocytochemistry, and confocal fluorescence microscopy.

• Maintains laboratory notebook.

• Understands and applies basic scientific techniques.

• Conducts analysis of results and may begin interpretation of results.

• Sets up and prepares routine experiments as directed.

• Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments, and equipment.

• May perform independent literature searches.

• Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation.

• Maintains and orders supplies.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Previous experience in tissue culture and related methodologies is highly desirable.

• Ability to work independently and as a team member.

• Good communication skills.

• Computer literacy.

• Passion for the project and a proactive approach to research

EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree required.

EXPERIENCE:

New graduates with some lab experience (via course work, internships, etc.) or those without any prior research experience will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above.