JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title:Research Technician I

Job Code:000319

Salary Plan:Nonexempt

Lab:Allen Lab

Direct Supervisor: Ruchi M. Newman, Ph.D.

Employing Hospital and Department:

Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard

Minimum degree and field of knowledge:BS/BA

Years experience required:0 – 2 years experience

Summary:

The Allen Laboratory at the Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard ( is looking for self-motivated individual who is seeking an entry-level opportunity in the fields of viral genomics and immunology. The candidate will assist in research to study the contributions ofhost and viral evolution in the development of broadly neutralizing antibody responses in HIV-infected patients. The candidate will generate viral sequence data from patient samples and use in vitrovirological assays, including antibody/plasma neutralization and viral replicative capacity, to understand the impact viral variation on the development of broadly neutralizing antibodies. Isolation and sequencing of B-cell receptors (BCRs) will complement the viral sequence data and allow mapping of viral epitopes that lead to robust antibody development. Knowledge gained from these studies will help to guide the design of effective vaccines against HIV and other variable pathogens.

Job Duties:

  • Perform molecular analysis of viruses utilizing standard molecular techniques (DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, DNA cloning)
  • Generate and analyze next-generation sequencing (NGS) data
  • Maintenance of mammalian cell lines for use in in vitro assays
  • Viral propagation and titering
  • BCR isolation and sequencing
  • Independently perform routine and non-routine experiments which are moderate to complex
  • Work well with others to refine protocols, explore novel techniques, and incorporate them the research project
  • Ensure quality control of equipment, reagents and cellular components
  • Performs maintenance, inventory, cleaning, and organizational tasks for the laboratory as required
  • Detailed documentation of experimental work

Qualifications:

  • Experience in current molecular biology technologies.
  • Experience in mammalian culture is a plus
  • Excellent organizational skills, critical thinking skills and attention to detail
  • Desire and willingness to learn, develop, and execute new experimental techniques and take on challenging scientific problems in a team environment
  • Excellent documentation skills
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to interact professionally lab members and external contacts
  • Must have good interpersonal skills and ability to perform as a team member
  • Computer programming experience in bash/perl/R is preferable, but a willingness to learn these skills is sufficient
  • Some occasional weekend or evening flexibility may be required