Research Assistant III - Microbiology and In Vivo Models
Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
Job Description
We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant III to contribute to a multidisciplinary portfolio of research projects involving procedures of health monitoring, injections, blood sampling, survival surgery, post‑operative care, and behavioral studies relating to projects on the ImmunoMaterials Platform. Reporting to Staff Scientists on the ImmunoMaterials Platform at the Wyss Institute, you will be responsible for overseeing study animals, daily rounds, and observations to check animal health status; adherence to protocols and techniques at the animal facility; performing and documenting experimental observations in rodent species; and sample processing at the conclusion of the studies. You will also maintain cell and pathogen cultures for in vitro and in vivo experiments and run screening assays that are in vitro based, including but not limited to microbiology, ELISA, enzymatic assays, imaging, and flow cytometry.
Responsibilities
Execute animal models with guidance from senior staff; provide technical support for and contribute to the development and implementation of animal models and experimental procedures.
Process samples at the conclusion of studies using established techniques (microbiology, ELISA, biomarker identification, tissue processing) and perform primary cell culture.
Perform data analysis and present data and conclusions at meetings within the Wyss Institute.
Follow standard operating procedures and maintain accurate records and documentation to comply with regulatory requirements.
Assist in managing the laboratory space by maintaining necessary supplies and equipment and interfacing with veterinary staff and research scientists.
Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams.
Working Conditions
Ability to work after regular hours and on weekends on occasion is required for this role.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift 50 pounds maximum, with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing 15–30 pounds, and push and pull heavy equipment.
Must be able to walk or stand for a full 7‑hour shift and perform repetitive motions over extended periods of time.
Must be able to work in an environment with exposure to animals, animal dander, animal byproducts, and bedding materials for prolonged periods of time.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in biological life science or related area is required.
Two or more years of hands‑on experience with mouse models, surgical techniques, or related experience is required. Advanced education may count toward years of experience.
Desirable Skills
Master's degree preferred.
Experience with behavioral studies is strongly preferred.
Experience handling rodents and familiarity with IACUC protocol operations is required.
Flexible to working outside normal business hours routinely when needed.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently or with minimum supervision on multiple projects across various therapeutic areas.
Ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary group and work well independently.
Highly motivated, detail‑oriented, organized, and able to take initiative.
Strong communication skills.
Familiarity with or willingness to learn normal rodent behavior and ability to recognize alterations in behavior.
Benefits
Generous paid time off including parental leave.
Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one.
Retirement plans with university contributions.
Well‑being and mental health resources.
Support for families and caregivers.
Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks.
EEO/Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non‑discrimination policy. Our policies help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
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We are looking for a motivated Research Assistant III to contribute to a multidisciplinary portfolio of research projects involving procedures of health monitoring, injections, blood sampling, survival surgery, post‑operative care, and behavioral studies relating to projects on the ImmunoMaterials Platform. Reporting to Staff Scientists on the ImmunoMaterials Platform at the Wyss Institute, you will be responsible for overseeing study animals, daily rounds, and observations to check animal health status; adherence to protocols and techniques at the animal facility; performing and documenting experimental observations in rodent species; and sample processing at the conclusion of the studies. You will also maintain cell and pathogen cultures for in vitro and in vivo experiments and run screening assays that are in vitro based, including but not limited to microbiology, ELISA, enzymatic assays, imaging, and flow cytometry.
Responsibilities
Execute animal models with guidance from senior staff; provide technical support for and contribute to the development and implementation of animal models and experimental procedures.
Process samples at the conclusion of studies using established techniques (microbiology, ELISA, biomarker identification, tissue processing) and perform primary cell culture.
Perform data analysis and present data and conclusions at meetings within the Wyss Institute.
Follow standard operating procedures and maintain accurate records and documentation to comply with regulatory requirements.
Assist in managing the laboratory space by maintaining necessary supplies and equipment and interfacing with veterinary staff and research scientists.
Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams.
Working Conditions
Ability to work after regular hours and on weekends on occasion is required for this role.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift 50 pounds maximum, with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing 15–30 pounds, and push and pull heavy equipment.
Must be able to walk or stand for a full 7‑hour shift and perform repetitive motions over extended periods of time.
Must be able to work in an environment with exposure to animals, animal dander, animal byproducts, and bedding materials for prolonged periods of time.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in biological life science or related area is required.
Two or more years of hands‑on experience with mouse models, surgical techniques, or related experience is required. Advanced education may count toward years of experience.
Desirable Skills
Master's degree preferred.
Experience with behavioral studies is strongly preferred.
Experience handling rodents and familiarity with IACUC protocol operations is required.
Flexible to working outside normal business hours routinely when needed.
Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently or with minimum supervision on multiple projects across various therapeutic areas.
Ability to collaborate with a multidisciplinary group and work well independently.
Highly motivated, detail‑oriented, organized, and able to take initiative.
Strong communication skills.
Familiarity with or willingness to learn normal rodent behavior and ability to recognize alterations in behavior.
Benefits
Generous paid time off including parental leave.
Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one.
Retirement plans with university contributions.
Well‑being and mental health resources.
Support for families and caregivers.
Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement.
Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks.
EEO/Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non‑discrimination policy. Our policies help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
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