Research Technician - Lindsley Lab

Overview

A Research Technician position is available in a laboratory of Coleman Lindsley, MD, PhD at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) and Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts (https://lindsleylab.dana-farber.org). We use interdisciplinary approaches at the interface of genomics and molecular biology to understand the mechanisms of human cancer, with the aim of translating these insights into novel therapies for patients. This position will support research efforts into the mechanisms by which epigenetic dysregulation promotes development of leukemia, with an emphasis on the Polycomb repressive complex function (PRC). This lab-based research effort builds on our clinical discoveries linking PRC1.1 inactivation to poor prognosis and differential response to standard and novel treatments and our mechanistic studies describing how specific gene mutations disrupt PRC1.1 complex assembly to impair repressive function and drive epigenetic reprogramming of leukemia target genes that mediate oncogenic signaling.

Technical skills involving tissue culture, flow cytometry, and standard molecular and cell biology techniques are highly desirable. Prior experience with small animal models would be an advantage but is not required.

We are seeking enthusiastic, self-motivated individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, challenging research environment, and can interact well with others as part of a cohesive team.

The positions in this job family will assist scientists in performing scientific research, development and/or clinical tasks of varying complexity. In general, they will assist in the set up, operation and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations and calculating and recording results.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Responsibilities

• The Research Technician will work under supervision to support the Lindsley Laboratory in a variety of ways:

  • Perform in vivo (mouse) experiments, including blood and tissue collections, treatments and injections, and organ harvest.
  • Assist with maintenance and monitoring of the animal colony, breeding, weaning, tagging, and genotyping.
  • Maintain cells in culture and perform in vitro experiments at biological safety levels 1 and 2.
  • Perform standard molecular biology and biochemical techniques, such as western blots, DNA/RNA isolations, PCR/qPCR, and flow cytometry
  • Conduct standardized biological, microbiological or biochemical tests and laboratory analyses, including the collection of information and samples from organic substances, such as blood, drugs, and animals.
  • Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings, including grant preparation and presentations and look for opportunities to co-author publications. May be expected to participate in formal and information presentations of results to lab members.
  • Maintain detailed notebook of all work-related activities.
  • Monitor laboratory work to ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety information as well as the standard operation procedures specific to each laboratory.
  • Collaborate with laboratory manager and staff scientists for the development, modification and improvement of standard operating procedures.
  • Assist with the daily upkeep of the lab, overseeing the completion of routine lab tasks, deliveries of supplies, and maintenance of lab stocks.
  • Use computers, equipment, and high-technology applications to perform work duties.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research Technician

No supervisory responsibilities. Normally receives detailed instructions on all work.

Qualifications

B.A/B.S with significant biological/physical science coursework preferred. Experience with techniques in molecular biology and cell biology is highly desirable.

The ideal addition to the Lindsley Laboratory will:

• Be kind and collegial
• Enjoy working in a team environment with a wide variety of faculty and staff
• Have good oral and written communication skills
• Be able to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot solutions
• Possess outstanding planning, organizational, multi-tasking skills

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of information and techniques related to either biology, chemistry, or medicine is preferred.
• Must have excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to work with a wide variety of faculty and staff.
• Ability to analyze information and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.
• Must have attention to detail and be thorough in completing work tasks.
• Ability to work within a team environment.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

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