Research Technician

Massachusetts General Hospital
United States, Massachusetts, Boston
80 Blossom Street (Show on map)
Feb 13, 2025
Summary Responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data. Does this position require Patient Care? No Essential Functions -Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures. -Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines. -Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed. -Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results. -Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods. -Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports. Education Bachelor's degree required Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? Yes Work Experience Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment. 1-2 years preferred. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures. Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments. Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools. Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues. Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges. Qualifications: Must have BS/BA in life sciences, applied sciences or engineering. Must have at least one year of non-course based laboratory research experience, such as a summer internship or research assistantship. Coursework and/or internship experience in biomaterials with emphasis on polymeric materials a plus. Coursework and/or laboratory experience with bacterial culture methods or animals a plus. Robust written and oral communication skills, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills are all expected. Independence, self-motivation, and a willingness to learn new skills are also vital for succeeding in this position. Must have solid, practical skills in Microsoft Office applications. Demonstrated proficiency in MATLAB is a plus. Specific technical functions: Bacterial culture in suspension and as biofilm mainly of Staphylococcal bacteria and also polymicrobial cultures including Gram (-) pathogens such as E. coli Using various bacterial characterization assays such as selective agar growth, susceptibility analysis, fractional susceptibility testing. Biofilm characterization such as susceptibility testing, real-time chemiluminescent assays, electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), and imaging-based techniques such as fluorescent and bioluminescent imaging. DNA/RNA isolation (of bacteria and mammalian tissue), real-time PCR. May include laboratory formulation including preparation of macromers, polymers, polymer blends, polymeric consolidation. May include characterization of polymeric materials on-site and local off-site research facilities including drug elution, mechanical and fatigue testing, wear testing, thermal and structural characterization. Liaising with outside services such as radiation processing or sterilization. Supporting preclinical animal work with sample collection and processing such as for bacterial and host transcriptomics and functional outcomes such as pain sensitivity analysis and micro-computed tomography image analysis. The General Hospital Corporation 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.