Technical Research Assistant l BWH Neurology
Brigham & Women's Hospital(BWH)

Seeking qualified candidate for a position working on an active, well-funded, disease-focused research project on the basic biology of Parkinson disease with clinical and translational implication. Our laboratory has a strong record of training interested individuals for future careers in medicine, research, and industry. The primary techniques to be employed are cell culture of iPSCs, iPSC derived neurons, cell lines, preparation of primary rodent neurons from dissected brain tissue, drug treatments and functional assays using these cells. The expectation is that the candidate will execute techniques independently with minimal supervision, following two-way discussion of experimental with the principal investigator. Develops modification of existing techniques, as appropriate. In collaboration with other members of the research team, analyzes and interprets data, and provides input to experimental design and overall research directions. Trains new staff and may serve in a limited supervisory role.

Qualifications
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Under general supervision, perform cell culture, including isolation of primary rodent neurons, iPSCs, iPSC differentiated neurons, and standard immortalized laboratory cell lines.

2. Basic biochemistry techniques (e.g. crude cell fractionation, co-immunoprecipitation, preparing whole cell protein lysate), and Western blot.

3. Physiological assays including measurement of synaptic vesicle dynamics by biochemical and live imaging techniques.

4. Knockdown and overexpression of target genes in mammalian models.

5. Drug treatments of multiple cell types.

6. End point assays (LDH, ATP etc), analysis using commercial kits.

7. General molecular biology e.g. cloning, plasmid preps, genomic DNA and RNA isolation, PCR

8. Assists in the orientation and training of new staff in established laboratory techniques.

9. Coordinates daily schedule of experiments.

10. Responsible for data management: collects, records, tabulates and presents data. Creates graphs of experimental, performs statistical tests, and discusses progress of work regularly with supervisor.

11. All other duties as assigned.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
• Sound analytical and organizational skills.
• High degree of computer literacy
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Structures logically and effectively tasks and set priorities
• Is able to identify potential problems and trouble-shoot solutions.
• Demonstrates ability to analyze data statistically and to logically present it.
• Shows strong interpersonal communication skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must have a Bachelor's degree.
• Must have some experience in biology wet labs (either in a job-related or school/course-related setting). Experience with mammalian cell culture (either immortalized or iPSC or primary neurons, preferably all three) is a plus.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Normal laboratory environment.
Hazardous materials are used in some of the experiments conducted.

EEO Statement
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.