Research Assistant II - DNA Barcoding and Biomolecular Imaging

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Job description

Job Summary

About us:

The Wyss Institute's mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the freedom of academia and the focus of industry in order to translate revolutionary technologies into commercial products and solutions. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don't fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word "challenging," and we love challenges. For more information, visit:

About you:

You are a passionate, impact-motivated scientist and problem solver who relishes the opportunity to participate in fast-paced, dynamic research. You are focused on delivering impact through translational science and hope to one day join or found an early-stage biotech startup. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the role:

We are looking for a lab technician to join our rapidly growing team within the Yin lab at the Wyss Institute focused on DNA transforming bioimaging. We have developed a pipeline leveraging DNA barcoding for rapid, high throughput sequential imaging at the cellular atlas of the body. Reporting to the project leads, you will assist in key research studies involving developing DNA-barcoded molecular probes and biomarker detections at sub-cellular level. Additionally, you will be closely involved in the continued development of our high-throughput biomolecular imaging.
Job-Specific Responsibilities

What you'll do:

• Maintain long-term mammalian cell cultures of immortalized cell lines under the supervision of senior lab members.
• Perform antibody purification and validation with supervision from the project leads.
• Perform immuno-fluorescence in tissue and cells with supervision from senior staff.
• Contribute to developing and optimizing new experimental protocols under the supervision of the project leads.
• Order supplies and perform support activities and lab maintenance.
• Accurately and thoroughly document experimental observations and protocols and help maintain a high level of organizational efficiency within the lab.
• Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness in the workplace through actions & communications with others.

Basic Qualifications

What you'll need:

• College background in Biology, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry or related field required.
• At least 1 year of experience performing long-term mammalian cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques is required. Education may count towards years of experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Desirable Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Bioengineering, or Biochemistry strongly preferred.
• Prior experience with immunofluorescence in FFPE section and fresh frozen tissue.
• Prior experience with fluorescence microscopy is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with python, R or similar programming language is advantageous, but not required.
• Highly effective organizational and communication skills are essential.

Working Conditions

This position will be based on our campus in Boston, MA and will require on-campus presence. Subject to business needs, the Wyss Institute generally supports flexible work arrangements.

Harvard requires COVID vaccination for all Harvard community members. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University's COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University's "COVID-19 Vaccine Information" webpage:

Additional Information

This is a one year term position with the possibility of renewal.

Harvard is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Why you'll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you're a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

Our outstanding benefits package includes:

• Time Off: 3 - 4 weeks paid vacation, paid holiday break, 12 paid sick days, 12.5 paid holidays, and 3 paid personal days per year.
• Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical plans, dental & vision plans, all coverage begins as of your start date.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.
• Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
• Wellness options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, massages, nutrition, meditation and complimentary health services.
• Facilities access and Discounts: Harvard access to athletic facilities, libraries, campus events and many discounts throughout metro Boston.

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