GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Laboratory Research Technician serves to assist a Principal Investigator in a neurosurgical research laboratory and associated cGMP clinical cell therapy production facility. This person is expected to support research in iPSC technology, and stem cell differentiation protocols, with an eye towards clinical translation, including an FDA approved Phase 1 clinical trial for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. The successful candidate will play a key role in cell production and differentiation processes, contributing to the advancement of cutting-edge treatments. Primary responsibilities include maintaining cell cultures, executing differentiation protocols, and ensuring adherence to stringent cGMP quality standards. Additional responsibilities included assisting in experiments for research projects under supervision of the project head and the PI of the laboratory. This includes collection of and accurate recording of procedures and results, maintenance of databases used in the lab, ordering necessary reagents to conduct experiments, and participation in joint upkeep of the lab. This position requires a person who has Bachelor of Science degree in molecular/cell biology or a related field, pays attention to details, is capable of working independently after training, possesses good verbal and written communication skills, and works well as part of a team. This position offers a unique opportunity to actively contribute to groundbreaking research in the field of regenerative medicine.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Carries out a wide range of moderate to complex lab techniques such as, but not limited to, cell and tissue culture, executing differentiation protocols, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, immunostaining, Western blot, animal surgery, behavior tests, histology, and histochemistry.

Synthesizes and interprets information obtained from graphs, charts, laboratory experiments, statistical summaries and other data collection methods in order to develop new investigative techniques and/or to determine the most appropriate direction of research. Synthesis may involve use of computer programs.

Prepares written reports on status of research, determination of technical procedures, sequence of operations, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions. Collaborates with supervisor in writing and editing material for publication and may appear as principal or secondary author on publications.

Independently modifies techniques as necessary to meet research and/or experimental needs. Understands and can comply with applicable safety and isolation rules for dealing with human cells and tissues and with molecular and genetic engineering technology.

May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as incubators and tissue culture maintenance equipment, centrifuges, cell sorters, biosafety cabinets, microscopes and histochemical analysis equipment, and other scientific equipment related to research activity.

Provide functional guidance and immediate supervision to lower level technical personnel.

May teach moderately difficult to complex lab techniques to students and research personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in biological or physical sciences. Related experience a plus.

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

Experience with stem cell technology, cell and tissue culture, and/or small animal surgery is a plus.

Experience and proficiency working within a cGMP environment is a plus.

Must be self-motivated and able to work independently.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Proficiency in Word, Power point, Excel, and Internet searches preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Duties will be performed in a general research laboratory and a cGMP environment.

Work will be conducted during a forty-hour workweek, but the actual schedule may vary and occasionally include nights and weekends as needed.

Massachusetts General Hospital 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.