Research Assistant I

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Why join Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

We are seeking a motivated and highly organized Research Assistant to support ongoing research on neurodegenerative disorders. This position will contribute to studies examining the aging dynamics of neurons in both healthy and diseased states and will assist with research aimed at identifying potential age-reversal interventions. The Research Assistant will work under the guidance of senior researchers and will have the opportunity to learn and apply a range of experimental techniques in both in vitro and in vivo (mouse model) systems.

A significant component of this role involves supporting the laboratory’s mouse research program. Responsibilities include assisting with routine colony management (such as breeding, weaning, and basic health monitoring) and supporting experimental procedures including oral gavage, injections, and blood or tissue collection (e.g., cheek bleeds, perfusions, and dissections). The Research Assistant may also help with behavioral assessments. Prior experience with all of these techniques is not required; however, comfort working with mice, a strong interest in animal-based research, and the ability to follow detailed protocols carefully are important.

In addition to animal work, the Research Assistant will assist with tissue and molecular analyses such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), microscopy, tissue sectioning, and other standard laboratory techniques (e.g., RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, Western blotting, and basic data processing). Training will be provided as needed. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, reliable, and organized, with strong record-keeping skills and the ability to communicate effectively with the PI and other lab members.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with maintenance of mouse colonies, including breeding, weaning, health monitoring, and experimental scheduling.
• Support experimental procedures involving mice (e.g., handling, gavage, injections, blood and tissue collection, behavioral testing) under supervision and in accordance with approved protocols.
• Assist with tissue processing and staining (e.g., immunohistochemistry).
• Perform routine laboratory assays and procedures (e.g., basic molecular biology and biochemistry techniques) following established protocols.
• Accurately record and organize experimental procedures, observations, and results using established laboratory documentation and data management practices.
• Communicate progress and any issues to supervising researchers and collaborate with lab members as needed.
• Help maintain an organized laboratory environment and follow all safety and animal welfare regulations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline. 
• At least one year of related laboratory or research experience preferred (relevant coursework in biology, neuroscience, or a related field may count toward experience). 

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Experience with basic laboratory techniques is helpful, and familiarity with mouse handling or animal procedures is a plus, though prior experience with all techniques is not required at the start. 
• Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, including careful labeling, sample tracking, and documentation of experimental procedures and results. 
• High attention to detail and technical accuracy, along with the ability to follow written and verbal protocols precisely, are essential. 
• The successful candidate will show a strong willingness to learn new laboratory techniques, adapt to evolving experimental needs, and communicate effectively while working collaboratively in a research team environment.

• Term: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal, Pre-Placement Medical Evaluation
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 052. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

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. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.