05-Jun-2025
Laboratory Technician
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
68331BR
Job Summary
The Holford Lab at Harvard University studies the complex trait and novelty using venomous organimss. Specifically, we study how venom evolves, develop, and function in predatory marine mollusks and how the components of a venom arsenal can be used for treating human disorders such as pain and cancer. We are taking an integrative multi-modal approach for studying venom using a broad range of techniques including multi-omic (genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic) profiling, lineage tracing, histology, cell culture, bioinformatics, and molecular and biochemical assays. The ultimate goal of our research is to uncover guiding principles of rapidly evolving genes. We are seeking a Laboratory Technician to support our growing lab needs.
Position Description
This position will report directly to the Principal Investigator and perform the following duties:
- Prepares matter for analysis and diagnosis, performing duties such as cutting, embedding and staining tissue, mounting slides, and preparing complex chemical solutions and media.
- Performs standard computational experimental tests and procedures.
- Records results of experiments according to standard laboratory techniques.
- May operate scientific equipment, requiring a high degree of skill and/or precision.
- May maintain cultures, animals, and other experimental matter, requiring knowledge of aquatic husbandry and other laboratory techniques.
- Performs related job duties as required.
Basic Qualifications
One year of experience working in a laboratory. College coursework may count towards year of experience.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
Undergraduate degree in STEM field of biology, evolution, chemistry, or computer science strongly preferred. Strong organizational and communication skills, and should be detail-oriented. Must be able to work independently and part of a team. Basic knowledge of lab best practices and protocols. Ability to take direction and receive constructive feedback well. Experience with various lab techniques such as cell culture, histology, and molecular and biochemical assays preferrable.
Working Conditions
Work is in a lab and office setting.
Additional Information
This is a one-year term position.
Harvard University will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
Work Format Details
This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
About Us
OEB is a diverse and vibrant department with a broad range of research and teaching interests, ranging from the evolution and control of gene expression patterns within individuals and populations to the dynamics of ecosystems. Field and laboratory studies are key to understanding the evolution of organisms, how biodiversity is generated and maintained, how organisms work, and how organisms interact with their environment. OEB has close working associations with its allied institutions: the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) and the Harvard University Herbaria (HUH), as well as the Arnold Arboretum and the Harvard Forest. These institutions and their collections offer an unparalleled, rich set of resources for OEB students, faculty, visitors and staff.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/benefits-wellbeing) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
- Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
- Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
- Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
- Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
- Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
- Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
- Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Job Function
Research
Department Office Location
USA - MA - Cambridge
Job Code
403096 Laboratory Technician
Work Format
On-Site
Sub-Unit
Sciences
Salary Grade
049
Department
Organismic and Evolutionary Biology (OEB)
Union
55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers
Time Status
Full-time
Pre-Employment Screening
Identity
Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University views equity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify this excellence while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.