Technical Research Assistant I BWH Neurology

The CLIMB Study team and Translational Neuroimmunology Center, at the Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases is seeking to hire a highly qualified and motivated Technical Research Assistant I.

The individual will work on experimental studies related to multiple sclerosis using human blood samples brain and CSF samples, along with postdoctoral fellows. They will learn and execute laboratory tasks related to tissue culture, PCR, cell isolation, flow cytometry and sequencing. They will participate in study meetings and abstract preparation.

The individual will also work with our multiple sclerosis biorepository. Work will be focused on sample processing (blood, saliva, urine, and stool) and maintenance of the biorepository (sample logging and retrieval, maintaining and auditing sample inventory, and performing quality control assessments). In addition, the incumbent will assist with experimental work aimed at biomarker development and understanding the disease process in multiple sclerosis using samples from the biorepository as time allows.

Working under the general supervision of Principal Investigator, postdoctoral fellow or the research lab manager, and in accordance with established hospital policies and procedures, conducts a variety of routine and non-routine experiments where methodologies are clearly established or being developed together with Principal Investigator, and will participate in abstracts and research reports.

The position will require some evening hours.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under general supervision, performs a variety of routine and non-routine tests following established methodologies.
• Processing and freezing biologic specimens (blood, saliva, urine, and stool) from patients collected as part of an ongoing longitudinal study of patients with multiple sclerosis. As samples may arrive in the lab late in the day, some evening hours are required in order to process all samples the same day as they arrive.
• Maintaining a repository of frozen samples for future and ongoing studies. Recording samples in an Oracle based LIMS system. Troubleshooting logging errors and performing audits of sample inventory. Performing quality control assessments of frozen samples.
• Recruitment of healthy volunteers to donate blood as controls; obtaining informed consent, documentation of enrollment in study, and performing blood draws under supervision.
• Assisting with experimental work including, but not limited to, assays such as flow cytometry, flow-assisted cell-sorting (FACS), DNA and RNA isolation, transcriptional profiling (real-time rt-PCR, RNA sequencing, nanostring), proliferation assays, ELISA, and Luminex. Performs data analysis and preliminary statistical analysis under supervision.
• Ordering laboratory reagents and supplies. Maintaining equipment and supplies in a neat and orderly manner.
• Involved in orientation and training of other employees, such as new technicians and summer interns. Assists in the day-to-day supervision of high school interns.
• Discusses progress of work regularly with supervisor.
• All other duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• BS in a biological/physical science with hands-on experience in any biology field required. Should have previous experience of working in a research lab and familiarity with basic laboratory instruments, equipment, and scientific procedures.
• May consider a bachelor's degree in another area of concentration, if individual has had some course work in the sciences and possesses practical experience in basic laboratory techniques.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Must have a sound understanding of laboratory practices and procedures.
• Ability to manage work processes in a neat and orderly way, to follow instructions, and to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a team.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize work with attention to detail and punctuality.
• On own initiative, ability to identify potential problems and troubleshoot problems as necessary.
• Must have good manual dexterity and be able to carry items weighing up to 30 lbs.
• Good organizational and record keeping skills, detail oriented.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to demonstrate professionalism.
• Sound degree of computer literacy.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work will mainly be scheduled during regular office and early evening hours. Depending on schedule of incoming blood samples, later shifts (1-9 PM or 2-10 PM) will be required up to two days/week.