Research Technician Murakami Lab

The Murakami Laboratory seeks a motivated technician candidate passionate about clinically relevant scientific discovery to participate in translational research in lymphoma and leukemia. A critical responsibility of this position is processing blood, bone marrow, and tissue specimens from patients with blood cancers treated on early phase clinical trials and to isolate specific tumor and immune cell populations for single-cell molecular and functional interrogation.

The candidate will work with the laboratory’s data scientists to maintain accurate records of these specimens to facilitate biomarker analyses. The candidate will also generate patient‑derived model systems for functional validation and preclinical experimental therapeutics studies. Finally, the candidate will contribute to an inquisitive intellectual atmosphere through active engagement in interdisciplinary project meetings, process improvement initiatives, and journal clubs, support efficient and safe laboratory operations, and help where needed in pursuit of larger project goals.

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.

• Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain and troubleshoot equipment
• Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas and may be responsible for ordering of supplies. Collaborates with Purchasing and may be responsible for negotiating with vendors
• 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
• Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination
• 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 staff
• Participate in grant application process and manuscript preparation as required
• Maintains detailed notebook of all work‑related activities
• Monitors laboratory work to ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety information as well as the standard operation procedures specific to each laboratory
• Expected to provide intellectual and interactive commitment to position by keeping up with appropriate literature and research publications
• May be responsible for the development, modification and improvement of standard operating procedures
• Uses computers, computer‑interfaced equipment, robotics or high‑technology applications to perform work duties
• May be responsible for designing and executing advanced experiments and setting strategy
• May be responsible for the examination of animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems
• May be responsible for monitoring laboratory budgets

• 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

The position requires a bachelor’s degree, preferably in biology or chemistry, with no prior professional experience necessary. Candidates will learn and apply technical principles, processes,…