What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Specialist, Microphysiological Systems position at MIT?
Posting Description
RESEARCH SPECIALIST, MICROPHYSIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS, Biological Engineering, to join the laboratory of Dr. Linda Griffith, to provide critical support to an ongoing project developing an in vitro tissue-engineered model of innervated endometriotic lesions; develop, record, and execute protocols and experiments for the culture and characterization of iPSC human neurons in a novel microstructured 3D culture platform, then adapt those protocols for co-culture with patient-derived primary endometrial cells including light microscopic, immunofluorescence, and functional characterizations, including signaling (immunofluorescent signal peak analysis, ELISA, Luminex, etc.); contribute to data analysis and writing that will result in publication of the project outcomes; and serve as a liaison between the Griffith lab and other collaborating labs, including the establishment of new collaborations.
Job Requirements
REQUIRED: Bachelor’s degree in cell and molecular biology or other related field and a minimum of four years of laboratory experience in mammalian cell biology and/or tissue engineering, culturing human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived (iPSC) neurons, with some experience on nociceptive neurons responsible for pain transmission, as well as the experience with neuronal culture in synthetic extracellular matrices, and knowledge of polymer biomaterials, use and characterization; experience with 3D cell culture, the culture of human iPSC-derived neurons, routine culture of primary mammalian cells, and operation of microfluidic devices for 3D tissue culture, especially of neuronal tissues; extensive experience in immunostaining and microscopy of 3D culture samples, including confocal fluorescence microscopy and troubleshooting new staining protocols; familiarity with biomaterials and microfluidic devices; expertise in scientific writing and manuscript preparation; excellent interpersonal and communication skills, attention to detail, time management, planning, and problem-solving skills; demonstrated ability to execute protocols and work independently in a laboratory setting; and ability to work in a fast-paced multidisciplinary environment. Job #24798
This is a one-year position with the possibility of an extension based on funding availability.
