Research Assistant

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.

Why join Harvard Medical School?

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 von Andrian lab is looking for a Research Technician to join an international group of scientists to conduct cutting‑edge research in basic and applied immunology. We are seeking a highly motivated and qualified individual for a full‑time job in our laboratory. Prior laboratory experience is preferred, as well as good organizational skills and an eagerness to learn. The position requires handling of laboratory mice on a regular basis, so please consider allergies or aversion to working with mice prior to applying.

The Research Technician is responsible for a range of animal care tasks, including ordering animals, maintaining accurate records of cage numbers and presenting summaries at regular lab meetings. They coordinate closely with lab members to monitor weaning schedules, assist with weaning when needed, and work with the animal resource center. Additionally, the technician will be trained to conduct animal‑related tasks, including handling, genotyping, and phenotyping mice.

In addition to animal care, the Research Technician manages general laboratory operations. This includes ordering, receiving, and organizing supplies, preparing common reagents and buffers, and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of work spaces such as culture and surgical rooms. The technician is also responsible for inventory management, such as antibody stocks and liquid nitrogen tanks, ensuring regular maintenance of lab equipment, and assisting colleagues with experiments when extra help is required.

The Technician is also involved in key scientific activities, including tissue culture, live cell imaging, immunohistology staining, and flow cytometry analysis. They will receive training in surgical procedures, in vivo models, and data analysis, contributing to the overall research goals of the lab. Additional miscellaneous duties may be assigned as needed to ensure smooth lab operations.

Regular laboratory conditions, this position works with mice.

• At least one‑year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

• Demonstrated abilities in basic laboratory techniques helpful but not required.
• Exposure to applicable computer technologies, including specific software applications, may be required.
• Appropriate communications skills required. B.S. in Biology or Biochemistry or college background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline.
• Previous experience with handling of laboratory mice.
• Strong communication, organization and record keeping skills.
• Must be a team player able to interact effectively with a large group and work independently with little supervision.

• 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 & Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre‑placement medical evaluation.
• Other Information: Please note that we are currently…