Job Title:Research Technician I

JOB DESCRIPTION

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