The Karmacharya Laboratory in the Center for Genomic Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH)/Harvard Medical School is seeking a motivated, enthusiastic candidate to join our research group as a research technician in neurobiology. Our research group uses human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to generate human neurons and brain organoids in the laboratory with the goal of investigating cellular pathways and molecular mechanisms relevant to neuropsychiatric disorders. The project entails close collaboration with the Chemical Biology Program at the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT.

The work involves differentiating human iPSCs along various neuronal lineages and to three-dimensional brain organoids and experiments involving single cell transcriptomics and multi-electrode arrays. work with human embryonic stem cells/iPSCs is an asset. Applicants should be familiar with molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, RT-PCR, western blotting) and cell biology (cell culture, immunofluorescence) approaches. Responsibilities will include performing laboratory research and providing technical support for members of the lab.

• Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. – pipetting, cell and tissue culture, etc.)
• Maintains laboratory notebook
• Understands and applies basic scientific techniques
• Conducts analysis of results and may begin interpretation of results
• Sets up and prepares routine experiments as directed
• Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment
• May perform independent literature searches
• Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation
• Maintains and orders supplies

A Research Technician II performs the duties of a Research Technician I (above) and may also:

• Execute protocols of non-routine experiments
• Assist the PI(s) with determining the most suitable methodology
• Perform basic design and modification of protocols
• Calculate, transcribe and analyze data
• Prepare and present reports
• Organize and summarize acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques.
• Organize and/or draft material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts and other documents for publication and/or presentation.
• Participate in the design of experiments or field work.

• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Good communication skills
• Computer literacy
• Working knowledge of clinical research protocols
• Ability to perform multiple tasks independently

The Research Technician II should also possess:

• Analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical problems
• Ability to interpret acceptability of data results
• Working knowledge of data management programs
• Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies

Minimum degree and field of knowledge: BS/BA

Preferred: The applicant should have an interest in cellular and molecular neurobiology with laboratory experience including standard techniques and cell culture, and preferably good computer skills and experience with databases. The ideal candidate will possess excellent critical thinking and organizational skills, pays close attention to detail, is willing to learn, is comfortable carrying out his/her work independently and enjoys working in a team environment. A two-year commitment is preferred.

New graduates with some lab experience (via course work, internships, etc.) or those without any prior research experience will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above. Those with a minimum of 1 year of directly related work experience will be considered for a Research Technician II position.

 EEO Statement 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.