New

Research Laboratory Technician - Inner Ear Biology

Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary - MEI
United States, Massachusetts, Boston
243-245 Charles Street (Show on map)
Mar 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'sdegree in neuroscience, natural sciences, communication sciences, computer science, mathematics, or related disciplines. Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree? Yes 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. Full Time 40 hours per week with benefits,Hours are flexible. May vary depending on experiment for the day. May include evening and weekend hours. This is a research assistant position specially designed for individuals with strong interest in the sciences and medicine to develop basic research training in a clinically relevant field (hearing) that has a strong translational bench-to-bedside potential. The research will be based in the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Otolaryngology Department, in the Laboratory of Albert Edge. As a research assistant, he/she will activelyparticipate in techniques involving molecular biology, CRISPR-Cas9 technology, drug screening, genetic mouse studies and translational in vivo experiments. This will involve mice cage management, mice cochlear dissections and culture, cell culture biology, genetic cloning strategies, PCR and confocal microscopy. The goal of the training period is to advance, in a graded fashion, toward independent research role, carrying out projects and experiments alone with supervision. In this manner, the goal is to transition the student from training phase to being able to design and execute new projects, and in the process develop a small niche of independent work, which can go toward a thesis project or equivalent. The research assistant will be an integral member of the team in the design, implementation of the experiments and interpretation of data results. Part of the training experience will involve lab meetings with the larger research group, and weekly seminars held through the Eaton Peabody Laboratories. This project is an exciting opportunity to learn and develop a diverse and marketable skillset but moreover to really achieve an advanced understanding and competency in basic cellular biology and the principles of research methodology. Research Assistant Duties Design, perform and troubleshoot basic molecular biology experiments (cloning, PCR, genotyping, cell culture) Manage mice cages, including maintenance of breeding cages Learn and undertake imaging of samples using confocal microscopy Perform Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing of hearing in mice Lead in the coordination of adult mice experiments, from hearing assessment to surgery to post-surgical monitoring Collaborate and work efficiently with members of the lab Help develop new scientific tools and techniques relevant to the ear Help organize and maintain general lab supplies of reagents, plates, media, etc. Help organize plasmid, stocks and cell lines to ensure proper cataloging of experiments Performing other duties as needed Preferred Qualifications Strong curiosity and interest in basic research Strong interpersonal and communication skills Ability to self-direct, self-teach and complete projects Basic computer skills (Excel, Word, Data analysis, Benchling) Interest in working with wet lab and comfort with handling research mice Maintain excellent note-taking ability and attention to details. Career interest in health and sciences, preferred Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary 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.