Research Assistant Lab

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well‑being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership. You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world‑renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

The Yellen lab at Harvard Medical School Neurobiology is looking for a research technician. Our research is focused on understanding neuronal metabolism and how it is influenced by – and influences – neuronal activity and excitability. The lab develops tools for studying neural metabolism, including engineered proteins that function as fluorescent biosensors of metabolism, and we study the dynamics of metabolism in mouse brain using both ex vivo and in vivo imaging methods.

We also work to learn the role of altered metabolism in preventing epileptic seizures, inspired by the ability of ketogenic diets to treat human epilepsy.

The successful candidate will work under close supervision by Dr. Yellen and others in the lab to:

• Manage a moderate size mouse colony, including genotyping and performing mouse surgery (stereotactic injection of viral expression vectors);
• Perform molecular biology procedures including plasmid DNA preparation, PCR, subcloning, biochemical assays, bacterial expression of fluorescent proteins, and fluorescence analysis; and
• Perform a small amount of tissue culture (cell line maintenance and transfection).

There may also be the opportunity to do semi-independent projects on fluorescent biosensor development. The successful candidate should be well‑organized, motivated, and a responsible team member.

Laboratory research setting.

• At least one‑year related work experience (relevant coursework may count toward experience). College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline.

• The candidate should have a general education in molecular biology and should be familiar with the basic concepts of plasmids, expression vectors, and subcloning, as well as hands‑on experience with good laboratory practices and sterile technique.
• Some experience with mice is preferred.
• Detailed guidance and training will be provided for each of the specific procedures used.
• All of the work requires attention to detail, and some of it requires creative problem solving.
• In general, the successful candidate is someone who always has their "head in the game."

• Term:
  This is a one‑year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.
• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information:
  Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre‑Employment Screening:
  Identity, Criminal, Credit, Pre‑Placement Medical Evaluation
• Other Information:
  Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.
• Staying Informed About Your Application:
  Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard‑designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship…