Research Technician

Site: The General Hospital Corporation

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

Dr. Edlow's basic and translational research in the Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology (VCRB) at Massachusetts General Hospital focuses on neurodevelopmental and metabolic programming effects of maternal immune activation in pregnancy (either by obesity, maternal high-fat diet, or viral/bacterial infections in pregnancy). The work is both with mouse models and with human samples (maternal and cord blood, placenta, breastmilk, among others). Our laboratory performs highly collaborative, multi-disciplinary research that spans the fields of developmental biology, immunology, infectious diseases, metabolism, and neuroscience.

The Research Technician reports directly to the Principal Investigator and is expected to work independently on assigned research with guidance from a higher-level lab member (e.g. Research Scientist, Postdoctoral Fellow) and/or the Principal Investigator. Experience with tissue dissection and preservation for RNA and immunohistochemical analyses, molecular techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction from tissues, and tissue sectioning and staining is preferred but not required. The Technician will assist with the laboratory's ongoing research projects studying the neurodevelopmental and metabolic programming effects of immune activation (via obesity, high-fat diet and/or viral infection) in pregnancy and lactation, using both mice and mouse tissues, and samples from human research participants (examining impacts of both viral infection and/or vaccination in pregnancy). With broad guidance from the supervisor, the Technician will learn to independently perform experiments to accomplish laboratory research goals. In addition, s/he/they will be responsible for documenting, analyzing, and reporting the results derived from mouse models and/or patient samples. The Technician may assist in the preparation of manuscripts for publication, with opportunities for authorship and mentorship in writing scientific papers if desired. The individual will also assist with gathering information needed for grant preparation and reporting and must be proficient in basic computer skills including word-processing, database and spreadsheet management, email and internet. Our laboratory is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion, and we foster an environment that is inclusive and welcoming to individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Underrepresented minorities in science and medicine are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

Summary

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

Candidates who are in the process of completing their bachelor's degree have a grace period of six months from their hire date (up to 1 year if starting per diem) to provide degree equivalency verification.

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.

Education

Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required

Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?

Yes

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)

Remote Type

Onsite

Work Location

60 Blossom Street

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Employee Type

Regular

Work Shift

Day (United States of America)

Pay Range

$19.76 - $28.44/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:

The General Hospital Corporation 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.

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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.