Massachusetts General Hospital Looking for Research Technician | MGH Cancer Center at Boston Full Time

The Bardeesy laboratory at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Cancer Center is currently seeking a highly motivated, talented and science enthusiast to fulfill a Research Technician I position. The Bardeesy Lab research projects are focused on defining the role of key gene mutations that drive pancreatic and biliary cancers. Our ongoing efforts include studies of the relationship between oncogenic pathways and cellular metabolism, the investigation of mechanisms of resistance and response to targeted therapies, and the conduct of genomic screens to systematically define novel vulnerabilities in molecularly defined subtypes of cancer. Additionally, the laboratory has extensive efforts in the development and study of genetically engineered mouse models of cancer. As a technician at the Bardeesy lab you will fulfill a crucial role in supporting in-depth investigations of cancer biology and have opportunities to co-author publications based on your work.

The position offers participation in a rich intellectual and educational environment within MGH Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School. The Bardeesy lab is also affiliated with the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard which provides additional opportunities to collaborate and bridge with a vibrant community. The experiences from this provide a strong foundation for your development as a scientist and/or your pursuit of a career in medicine .

Primary responsibilities include:

• Execute laboratory experiments, which may include techniques such as:
  • Processing and maintaining cell cultures, including organoid models.
  • In vivo studies of cancer pathways using genetically engineered mouse models. Particularly, in vivo assessment of drug response in mouse models, establishment of tumor xenografts, drug treatment and harvesting of tumor tissue.
  • Performing molecular biology research techniques including DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, plasmid cloning, and western blotting.
  • Genome engineering of cancer cells using CRISPR/CAS9
• Maintains accurate records of cell lines and experimental samples and participates in general laboratory responsibilities.
• Learn how to conduct experimental analysis and interpretation of results.
• Participate in scientific discussions and Lab meetings.
• Other tasks as required or assigned.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED :

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Life Science, or a related scientific field required.
• Prior experience working in a research laboratory, and proficiency in basic molecular biology and culture methods is desired. New graduates with more limited lab experience will also be considered for the Research Technician I position and are welcome to apply.
• Experience with mouse husbandry is desired but training can be provided.
• Must be reliable, organized, and able to work independently as well as with other members of the team and research center
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills required.

Working conditions

All research technicians are trained to work safely with human and mouse samples and other laboratory equipment.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Please note, the functions below are representative of major duties that are typically associated with these positions. Specific responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Similarly, not all duties that have been outlined will be assigned to each position.

• Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. – pipetting, cell and tissue culture, etc.)
• Maintains laboratory notebook
• Understands and applies basic scientific techniques
• Conducts analysis of results and may begin interpretation of results
• Sets up and prepares routine experiments as directed
• Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment
• May perform independent literature searches
• Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation
• Maintains and orders supplies

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree required.

EXPERIENCE:

• New graduates with some lab experience (via course work, internships, etc.) or those without any prior research experience will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above.
• Those with a minimum of 1 year of directly related work experience will be considered for a Research Technician II position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):

• A Research Technician II may serve as a team leader to lab assistants and Research Technician I’s.