Research Assistant I Lab

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Why join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health?

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued.

Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values, our Principles of Citizenship, and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives.

Job Summary:

The Department of Molecular Metabolism (MET) at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (SPH) conducts pioneering research into the causes of underlying complex human disorders. Our studies aim to transform our understanding of wellness and disease and will help us develop novel approaches to address the major challenges to global public health. Learn more about MET and their research here: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/molecular-metabolism/

 We are seeking a Research Assistant to support the Mair Lab which investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which animals modulate the rate at which they age in response to changes in nutrition and the environment. The profound ability to slow aging during fasting or when food intake is reduced is seen in organisms ranging from yeast to primates and is coupled to a striking protection against a suite of age-related pathologies. Learn more about Dr. Mair's research initiatives here: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/mair-lab/

The Research Assistant will hold an integral role within the lab – not only taking on the administrative duties involved in running the lab but also supporting and participating in the science.  We’re targeting someone highly organized, with excellent communication skills and a keen eye for detail.  This is an opportunity to have a tremendous impact on the running of a lab – ensuring a positive and encouraging work environment that fosters a strong and cohesive team.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Coordinating all ordering and organization of supplies and ensure adequate maintenance of research requirements, oversight of essential equipment and maintenance, management of the laboratory C. elegans strains, plasmid and cell line inventories, handling and processing of biological samples specimens, use of hazardous chemicals, and general laboratory tasks. Reports directly to laboratory supervisor.
• Administer lab safety programs and train and monitor laboratory members as needed to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Oversight of essential equipment and maintenance
• Coordinate lab orientation of all new lab members and training on a variety of laboratory procedures
• Along with other duties as assigned by the Principle Investigator, the candidate will serve as a resource for both students and staff for a variety of issues.
• Candidate must be self-motivated, energetic and able to work in a diverse laboratory environment.
• Perform laboratory experiments utilizing specific and prescribed techniques and equipment
• Collect project data; process, organize and summarize data, reporting experiment results using a variety of scientific, word processing, spreadsheet or statistical software applications or program platforms
• Process orders or invoices, or undertake other clerical and basic accounting duties under the direction of administrative personnel
• Organize and manage laboratory databases and reagent collections
• May perform routine logging and testing of samples
• Assist in laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols as a member of a project team or together with the principal investigator
• Assist in animal related lab matters including maintaining animal protocols, complying with university regulations and best practices of animal experiments
•  Perform related lab maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies
•  Communicate and coordinate with various department and school administrative personnel on lab issues
• Attend department and School meetings on behalf of the lab as needed (e.g. regular lab management meetings held by MET Research Operations Manager, journal clubs, seminars, and lab meetings)
• Participate in trainings as needed and appropriate to role
• Act as contact for some lab matters and work closely with department and central School staff on behalf of lab (e.g. operations, IT, research administration, and department administrators, IACUC, and EHS)
• Work efficiently and cooperatively with a team of researchers in support of projects
• Participate in laboratory meetings
• Performs other duties as assigned

PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of one year from date of hire with the possibility of extension.

PLEASE NOTE: The finalist will be required to pass an occupational health screening.

Physical Requirements:

• May be required to lift, move, and transport related laboratory equipment
• May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials

Basic Qualifications:

• 1+ years of relevant experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's Degree in a scientific or related field strongly preferred
• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in biological sciences
• Prior experience working with animal models a strong plus
• Candidate must be self-motivated, energetic and able to work in a diverse laboratory environment
• Knowledge of standard safety regulations and appropriate laboratory practices applying to research in biology and biochemistry; demonstrated ability to engage others effectively in learning and applying appropriate practices
• Excellent organizational, communication, computer and record-keeping skills
• Knowledge of computer and MS office software, as well as Mac software

• Appointment End Date: One year from date of hire
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country! 

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• The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions. 
• Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings. 
• This position has a 90 day orientation and review period. The O&R period will be waived for any internal Harvard employee transfers. 

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The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. 

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources 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.