Scientist – Neurology Research

Job Title
:
Scientist - Neurology Research

Location: Cambridge, MA

Pay Rate: $51/hour

Contract Duration: 12 Months

About the Role:

• We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join the Neurology Research Unit, ALS Research Group, to support exploratory discovery research focused on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
• This role will focus on early-stage research, including target identification and validation. The successful candidate will work closely with research scientists to design, execute, and analyze experiments investigating genomic and proteomic changes in ALS-related pathways.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, execute, and analyze molecular and cellular biology experiments supporting ALS target identification and validation.
• Perform molecular biology assays, including qPCR, droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), gel electrophoresis, and western blotting.
• Conduct proteomic studies, including immunoprecipitation (IP) and protein quantification using HTRF, AlphaLISA, and MSD assay platforms.
• Perform routine mammalian cell culture, plasmid transfection, and viral transduction using human iPSC-derived neurons and established cell lines.
• Support target validation studies through immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy, and quantitative image analysis.
• Conduct co-localization, morphological, and phenotypic assessments to evaluate candidate therapeutic targets.
• Assist with assay development, optimization, and validation.
• Generate high-quality, reproducible experimental data and perform preliminary data analysis.
• Prepare data summaries, figures, and internal scientific presentations.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and follow laboratory safety, quality, and data integrity standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong background in molecular biology, with a solid understanding of genomics and proteomics.
• Hands-on experience with qPCR, ddPCR, western blotting, and protein analysis techniques.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture.
• Experience working with human iPSC-derived neurons and/or established cell lines.
• Hands-on experience with plasmid transfection and viral transduction.
• Knowledge of immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy, and quantitative image analysis.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with research teams.
• Strong scientific documentation and data analysis skills.

Education Requirements:

• PhD or Master's degree in:
• Molecular Biology
• Or a closely related scientific discipline

Preferred Candidate Profile:

• Candidates with PhD-level training or equivalent research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, or related fields, particularly those with hands-on experience in genomic and proteomic assays and neuronal cell models.

Compensation:

The pay offered to a successful candidate will be determined by various factors, including education, work experience, location, job responsibilities, certifications, and more.