Research Assistant II - Microbiology and in vivo models
By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.
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 innovate and apply your knowledge to tackle projects in a fast past-paced, entrepreneurial environment. You enjoy working with highly motivated, diverse teams and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.
About the role:
We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant II to contribute to a multidisciplinary portfolio of research projects involving procedures of health monitoring, injections, blood sampling, survival surgery, post- operative care, and behavioral studies relating to projects on the ImmunoMaterials Platform.
Reporting to Staff Scientists on the ImmunoMaterials Platform at the Wyss Institute, you will be responsible for overseeing study animals, daily rounds, and observations to check animal health status; adherence to protocols and techniques at the animal facility; performing and documenting experimental observations in rodent species; and sample processing at the conclusion of the studies. You will also be responsible for maintaining pathogen cultures for in vitro and in vivo experiments. You will run screening assays that are in vitro based, including but not limited to: microbiology, ELISA, enzymatic assays, imaging, and flow cytometry.
What you'll do:
- Execute animal models under supervision of senior staff; provide technical support for the development and implementation of animal models and experimental procedures
- Under supervision of senior staff, process samples at the conclusion of studies (microbiology, ELISA, biomarker identification, tissue processing) and perform data analysis
- Follow standard operating procedures and maintain accurate records and documentation to comply with regulatory requirements
- Assist in managing the laboratory space by maintaining necessary supplies and equipment and interfacing with veterinary staff and research scientists
- Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams.
Qualifications
What you’ll need:
- College background in Biological Life Science or related area, or equivalent work experience in animal care is required.
- One or more years of hands-on experience with mouse models, surgical techniques or related experience is required. Advanced education may count toward years of experience.
Desirable Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree preferred. Experience with behavioral studies is strongly preferred.
- Experience handling rodents and familiarity with IACUC protocol operations is required.
- Must be flexible to working outside normal business hours routinely when needed.
- Some flexible evening or weekend hours required.
- Excellent organizational skills and a demonstrated ability to work independently or with minimum supervision on multiple projects across various therapeutic areas are required.
- Ability to work well independently and to collaborate with a multidisciplinary group is essential.
- Highly motivated, detail-oriented, organized, and able to take initiative. Good communication skills are important.
- Must be familiar with or willing to learn normal rodent behavior and able to recognize clinical signs of illness.
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to lift 50 pounds maximum, with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing 15-30 pounds, and push and pull heavy equipment.
- Must be able to walk or stand for a full 7-hour shift and be able to perform repetitive motions over extended periods of time.
- Must be able to perform in an environment with exposure to animals, animal dander, animal byproducts, and bedding materials for prolonged periods of time.
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, Criminal, and Occupational Health Screening.
- Other Information: Offer contingent on successful completion of pre-placement medical evaluation
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.