Research Assistant II

Research Assistant II

Location:

Boston, MA

The McDermott/Mahoney Lab at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is looking for a highly motivated and dedicated full‑time technician to support research on immune evasion mechanisms to resistance to VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. The lab focuses on characterization of costimulatory molecules related to PD‑1 and PD‑L1, such as B7‑H7/HHLA2, expressed by kidney cancer, and how they regulate the immune response for potential cancer therapy.

The second focus is characterizing resistance and toxicity from VEGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor and developing preclinical models to expedite translation of new therapies.

• Perform routine and non‑routine laboratory tests, including DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, northern blotting, and synthesize and interpret results. (essential)
• Operate and maintain moderate to complex laboratory equipment such as spectrophotometers and flow cytometers. (essential)
• Use analytical abilities and sound judgment to ensure reliability and accuracy of results, repeating procedures when necessary. (essential)
• Assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinate schedules of tests and procedures. (essential)
• Prepare written and/or verbal reports on status of research and technical procedures, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions. (essential)
• Leverage technical expertise in a specific area, e.g., electron microscopy, and contribute to the laboratory. (essential)
• Demonstrate routine to complex lab techniques to others in the lab. (essential)
• Attend safety lectures, courses, conferences to further knowledge of research and laboratory techniques; consult with other researchers and technicians to exchange information. (essential)

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or related scientific field required.
• 1‑3 years related work experience required, including 1 year of related experience or a Master’s degree with requisite knowledge and skills.
• Experience with computer systems, including web‑based applications and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access).

• Decision Making – make decisions based on specific instructions and standard practices with little or no supervision.
• Problem Solving – address routine problems, identify process improvement opportunities.
• Independence of Action – follow general instructions; work monitored by supervisor.
• Written Communications – read and write in English; communicate effectively with staff; respond to basic questions.
• Oral Communications – understand spoken English; follow safety instructions; communicate effectively in basic English.
• Knowledge – demonstrate basic knowledge of fundamental concepts; specialized knowledge not required.
• Team Work – interact respectfully with employees, professional staff, and external contacts.
• Customer Service – positive attitude; respond to requests in a timely and respectful manner.

• Close work (paperwork, visual examination). Color vision; visual clarity