Research Associate I

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designee, the Research Associate I provides operational support to the laboratory. The Research Associate I will perform research experiments as defined by the PI.

The Pathology Department at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School specifically focuses on immunology and immunopathology research, with the purpose of uncovering cellular mechanisms that drive disease. The NIH-funded laboratory team, led by Dr. Kiera Clayton, is currently looking to fill the position of Research Associate I. Research interests include the characterizing human NK cell and CD8+ T cell responses to HIV-infected and herpesvirus-infected immune cells and identifying pathways mechanisms of immunoevasion (https://www.clayton-lab.org/). Many of these projects involve collaborations with established labs at various universities and hospitals, including Harvard University, Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, MIT, the Ragon Institute, Boston University, and Weill Cornell Medicine. The ideal candidate for this position would have a background in immunology, virology, and biochemistry, an interest in a career in medical sciences, and experience working in a previous laboratory setting. Training provided would prepare the candidate for graduate school, medical school, or a Research Associate position in industry. Experimental day-to-day work will include working with human samples, molecular cloning, making viral stocks, performing live infections, flow cytometry, and microscopy.

Applicants should submit a cover letter outlining research experience, career goals, and interest in the position, along with a curriculum vitae and contact information for three references.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory experiments and may be responsible for a single research project
• Utilize all software relevant to experiment and equipment used
• Interpret data, form conclusions and decide on next steps under the direction of the PI or designee
• Maintain accurate records, may modify protocols with the approval of the PI or designee
• Review literature, publications and grants relevant to assigned projects
• Record results according to established lab, sponsor & university protocol
• Assist with performing data analysis and/or mathematical computations
• Maintain a detailed lab notebook according to lab practice
• Present findings at lab/group meetings
• Monitor laboratory supply levels and order as noted
• Prepare and label buffers, media, solutions, etc.
• Assist with and comply with all safety regulation and infection control standards
• Train on IACUC, IRB, EHS, Radiation safety protocols
• Comply with all applicable state, federal university, and sponsor policies and agreements
• Provide support with identifying problems and challenges, propose resolutions, implement appropriate solutions
• Provide support with drafting standard operation procedures in compliance to EHS regulation specific for the lab
• Perform other duties as required

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience
• Basic understanding of lab safety and protocols
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
• Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
• Ability to work in a team environment