New

Technical Research Assistant I, Hematology Van Galen Lab

Brigham and Women's Hospital
United States, Massachusetts, Boston
4 Blackfan Street (Show on map)
Apr 01, 2025
The Van Galen Lab applies innovative technologies to study blood dysfunction and leukemia. We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to perform research activities under the supervision of the principal investigator or senior lab member and drive independent progress. The selected candidate will perform laboratory experiments and bioinformatic analysis in the fields of hematology, cancer biology, and immunology. They will work with a high degree of independence, organize notebooks, and manage large datasets. Ideal candidates will be looking to further their careers by learning and adopting new research skill sets. PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Perform basic and advanced laboratory experiments with increasing independence. These include DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, single-cell sequencing of primary human cells, and protocol development. Maintain long-term tissue cultures of human cell lines and perform genetic manipulation and flow cytometry to study the function of genes and pathways. Perform mouse experiments including animal handling, drug administration, surgical procedures, tissue collection, and monitoring. Use software like Excel, Benchling, Geneious, FlowJo, and GraphPad Prism to prepare, record, analyze, and interpret data. This includes statistical analyses and generating data visualizations. Maintain a detailed electronic laboratory notebook to reproduce experiments precisely. Bioinformatic analysis of single-cell sequencing data using Unix shell, R and/or Python. Maintain version-controlled and well-annotated code to reproduce bioinformatic analyses. Perform independent literature searches and synthesize advances from different papers. Consult with the principal investigator and implement adjustments to the design of experiments and analytical pipelines. Order laboratory supplies to maintain inventory for ongoing experiments. Maintain and update databases of laboratory supplies and storage. Prepare laboratory reagents and chemicals. Oversee the lab's Institutional Laboratory Safety and Biohazard protocols, amend them as needed, and ensure that all lab members are familiar with and adhere to the protocols. Perform routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment. Perform authentication procedures such as plasmid sequencing and cell line verification by STR and mycoplasma assays. Share findings in lab meetings, local meetings, and community events, including poster presentations. Help prepare articles for publication. Contribute to the writing and organization of manuscripts, with authorship opportunities based on contributions. All other duties, as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS: Required: Bachelor's degree in a biological/physical science. Experience with laboratory techniques in molecular biology and cell biology. Preferred: Experience with bioinformatics. Experience with cell culture and animal handling. Previous work experience in an academic research setting. SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED: A positive attitude and eagerness to learn. Comfortable working independently and in a team. Good oral and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly present data. Exceptional organizational skills. Ability to learn and perform a variety of laboratory protocols, to identify potential problems and troubleshoot solutions. Ability to learn bioinformatic approaches and quickly adopt new software. Visual acuity and manual dexterity. Sound judgment regarding time management and laboratory safety. *Concern for detail: thoroughness; precision. WORKING CONDITIONS: Laboratory environment with occasional work with toxic chemicals, biohazards, and substances emitting unpleasant odors. Work requires frequent standing, walking and occasional lifting or carrying supplies. The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.