Research Assistant I

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Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Summary:

In the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Harvard University, we research and teach how the collective behavior of molecules and cells forms the basis of life. We are driven by a passion for discovery and value collaborative approaches to scientific inquiry, where connections between people fuel interdisciplinary science and break boundaries across varied experimental systems. Against a backdrop of cutting-edge biological research, we work as a team of educators and mentors to inspire and train the next generation of scientists and global citizens. The Chung lab investigates cellular lipid metabolism, specifically the mechanisms by which cells regulate lipid abundance to support cellular processes and how dysfunctions in these pathways contribute to neurological disorders. We seek a Research Assistant I, who will assist with overall lab organization and experimental work for projects related to neuronal lipid metabolism. The successful candidate will perform tasks related to the research project independently while under the guidance and mentorship of the supervisor.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to provide comprehensive assistance in lab organization and experimental support for projects related to the mechanisms of lipid storage for neuronal functions. The projects in our group will provide the opportunity to gain experience with interdisciplinary techniques, including advanced microscopy, biochemistry, neurobiology, and mass spectrometry-based analytics. As this work exists at the interface of cell biology, biochemistry, and neurobiology, applicants with a diverse background in training and education will be considered. The primary responsibilities of this position are as follows:

• Assist with experimental design and lab organization, such as managing supply inventory and setting up new lab space and equipment.
• Perform experiments using standard neuronal cell biology techniques, including primary neuron culture, AAV virus production, and protein biochemistry and analysis.
• Perform experiments involving fluorescence microscopy.
• Collect and record data from experiments; process, organize, and summarize data; present results at periodic group meetings.
• The successful candidate will perform tasks related to the research project independently while under the guidance and mentorship of the supervisor.

Working Conditions:

• This position is fully on-site in Cambridge, MA. 

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in biochemistry, cell biology, neuroscience, or a related discipline.
• At least one year of related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Familiarity with experimental design, buffer and reagent preparation, and basic protein biochemistry.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail are required.
• Candidates need to be thoughtful about protocols and techniques executed. Candidates need to show creativity, flexibility, and perseverance to troubleshoot and overcome inevitable experimental and technical difficulties.
• Strong interpersonal skills, in addition to the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.

• This is a one-year term position with the possibility of extension contingent on performance and funding.
• Standard Hours: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education

Other Information:

• All formal written offers will be made by FAS HR.

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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.