Research Lab Tech I (Margeta)

Site: Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary

Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.

Job Summary

Summary - Responsible for maintaining laboratory equipment, organizing and preparing samples, conducting experiments, and recording and analyzing data.

Does this position require Patient Care? No

Essential Functions

• Perform laboratory experiments following established protocols and procedures.
• Prepare and handle samples, reagents, and solutions, ensuring accuracy and adherence to safety guidelines.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments, conducting routine calibration and troubleshooting as needed.
• Record experimental data accurately and maintain organized records of procedures, protocols, and results.
• Compile and analyze data using appropriate statistical and analytical methods.
• Assist in data interpretation and presentation, contributing to research findings and reports.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required

Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?

Yes

Licenses and Credentials

Experience

Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment 1-2 years preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
• Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges.

Additional Job Details (if applicable)

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a highly motivated research technician to join our laboratory investigating how neuroinflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which immune responses shape disease progression in the retina and optic nerve.

Specifically, the lab studies the roles of microglia and macrophages in glaucoma, as well as their crosstalk with other cells in the retinal and optic nerve microenvironment. Using a combination of in vivo models, histology, molecular biology, and advanced imaging approaches, we aim to define how neuroimmune interactions influence neuronal vulnerability and degeneration. For more information about our current work and past publications, please feel free to visit our lab website at https://www.margetalab.org/.

This position is ideal for candidates interested in neuroscience, immunology, or vision research, and provide strong training for those considering graduate, medical, or MD-PhD programs. Technicians will receive close mentorship and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assist with ongoing research projects investigating neuroinflammatory mechanisms in glaucoma. Perform laboratory experiments involving retinal and optic nerve tissue, including tissue processing, sectioning, and histological analyses. Conduct immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and microscopy to assess microglia, macrophages, and other cell populations. Support in vivo/in vitro/ex vivo studies, including animal handling, sample collection, and basic experimental procedures (with training provided). Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records, protocols, licenses, expense reports, and data organization. Analyze and quantify imaging or molecular data using Fiji (ImageJ). Assist with general laboratory maintenance, including reagent preparation, inventory management, and equipment upkeep. Collaborate closely with faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and other lab members on team-based projects.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree in the biological sciences, physical sciences, or a related field is required prior to the position start date. Prior research experience is required. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to maintain accurate records and follow protocols. Demonstrated reliability, initiative, and willingness to learn new techniques. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-based research environment. Effective communication skills and openness to feedback and mentorship. Genuine interest in neuroscience, immunology, or vision research.

HIPAA Privacy Training and Sanctions

All employees who have access to health information whose confidentiality is protected by the HIPAA Privacy Rule are required by the Rule to receive training so that they have an understanding and knowledge of the Privacy Rule that corresponds to their job responsibilities and of the group health plan's policies and procedures that impact on their job duties. Training on the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Rule and the plan's health information policies and procedures under the direction of the institution's privacy officer is a pre-requisite for this position.

Employees who violate the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Rule will be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.

This description is intended to indicate essential tasks and levels of work difficulty that will be required of positions that will be given this title. It is not intended to limit or in any way modify the right of supervisors to assign, direct, or control the work of staff members under their supervision. The use of a particular expression or illustration describing duties shall not be held to exclude other duties not mentioned but that are of similar kind or level of difficulty

Remote Type

Onsite

Work Location

20 Staniford Street

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Employee Type

Regular

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

Pay Range

$20.16 - $29.01/Hourly

Grade

5

At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience if applicable, education, certifications and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package. In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable and recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite you to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of your potential compensation and benefits package.

EEO Statement:

5110 Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran's Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.

Mass General Brigham Competency Framework

At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership "looks like" by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.