Research Assistant II- Lab

The Song laboratory studies the genetic basis of how the human brain evolved and how its evolution affects neurological diseases in modern humans. We are seeking a Research Assistant II who will, under nominal direction, performs a variety of basic andgeneral laboratory research and clerical tasks, including tissue culture, molecular biology methods, and sequencing library preparation. The applicant must be able to perform tasks related to the research project independently, within broad guidelines and under periodic review by the supervisor.

1. Assists in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols;

2. Performs laboratory experiments utilizing standard techniques and equipment;

3. Processes, organizes and summarizes data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing,spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms;

4. Instructs other staff and students in basic laboratory techniques;

5. Performs related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies;

6. Processes orders or invoices, or undertake other clerical and simple accounting duties under the direction of administrative personnel.

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a discipline related to molecular biology, genetics, genomics, neuroscience, or stem cell biology.

• One to two years related work experience.
• Demonstrated abilities in laboratory techniques and in basic experimental design and analysis is required.
• Appropriate communication skills required.

N/A

• Duties may involve standing for extended periods of time and sitting using near vision for reading and computer use for extended periods of time.

• Work will be performed at a bench, in the tissue culture room, or at a desk within the Song laboratory, as needed.
• This position requires an on campus presence in Cambridge, Massachusetts 5 days per week and is NOT eligible for remote work.
• Specific hours will be determined between you and your manager based on business needs.

• This is a 1-year (12-month) term position starting on July 1, 2025, with a possibility of renewal based on continual funding and performance..
• We regret that Harvard University is unable to provide work authorization and/or visa sponsorship for this position.
• All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.