Research Assistant II - Cell Culture and Blood Clotting On Chip
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Why join the Wyss Institute at Harvard University?
The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.
Job Description
About you:
You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.
About this role:
We are currently seeking a Research Assistant II to significantly contribute to a research program funded by the Welcome Leap, “The missed vital sign”, involving the use of human Organ Chips to advance knowledge and development of therapeutics for heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). We will be developing a human Organ Chip model of HMB and use it to identify causal factors, as well as discover new non-hormonal HMB therapeutics using multi-omics analysis in combination with an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled computational approach. As part of the Bioinspired Therapeutics & Diagnostics platform and reporting to the Scientist, you will carry out various cell-based assays and manage primary cell cultures, including, but not limited to, primary epithelial and endothelial cell cultures and on chip cultures. Furthermore, you will execute studies on blood perfusion in these human organ chip models of HMB and analyze differences between them and healthy models. You will be expected to learn new skills, and troubleshoot any technical issues that arise, and contribute intellectually to the project. For more information, visit: https://wyss.harvard.edu/focus-area/biomimetic-therapeutic-diagnostics/
What you'll do:
- Perform microfluidic organ-on-chip experiments under the supervision of senior lab members, including primary endothelial cell culture and chip maintenance, in support of thrombosis-on-chip experiments. Accurately and thoroughly document experimental observations and protocols.
- Execute and assist in designing endpoint assays under the supervision of experienced staff members, including, but not limited to: coagulation analyses, blood vessel permeability assays and analysis, imaging and analysis of blood vessel morphology
- Order supplies and perform support activities and perform lab maintenance.
- Under the supervision of staff, contribute to data analysis and regularly present data and conclusions at meetings within the Wyss Institute.
- Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams.
Qualifications
What you'll need:
- College background in Cell Biology, biomedical engineering or related field. One or more years of industry or academic laboratory experience in vascular biology, hemostasis, or thrombosis involving primary cell culture is required. Education may count towards years of experience.
Desirable skills:
- Bachelor’s degree is strongly preferred. Willingness to learn and contribute to developing new methods and tools related to blood coagulation analysis on the chip.
- Prior experience with Vascular Biology or Thrombosis strongly preferred.
- Candidates with prior wet lab, such as cell-based assays, and imaging or image-processing experience are preferred.
- Experience with whole blood or blood cells in microfluidic systems to study coagulation and vascular injury is preferred.
- Proficiency with personal computers and applicable software packages (Microsoft Office).
- Good written and oral communication skills are essential.
- Ability to function in a team-oriented environment with other scientists and staff at the Institute is a must.
- Highly motivated, detail-oriented, organized, and able to take initiative and deliver results in milestone-driven projects.
Additional Information
- Appointment End Date: This is a one year term position with the possibility of renewal.
- Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
- Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
- Pre-Employment Screening: Identity.
- Other Information:
Why you’ll like working with us:
At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions. We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.
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Work Format Details
This position is based on-site at a Harvard campus location. 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.
Salary Grade and Ranges
This position is salary grade level 053. 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.