Research Assistant III- Technology Development

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Wyss Institute at Harvard University?

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About us:
The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky. We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About you:
You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You are excited about science and enjoy working at the bench, and may be interested in gaining additional research experience in a translational environment for two years before graduate school. You want the opportunity to explore your scientific interests and apply your knowledge to tackle ambitious projects in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial-minded environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world.

About the role:
We are looking for a Research Assistant III to join our work developing novel technologies for biomarker discovery and diagnostics. You will work with a multidisciplinary team on developing novel technologies for investigating pathological states from human biofluids. You will lead development of novel methods that will be used across different diseases. Although you will work within a team and receive significant experimental and computational training, you will also have significant opportunities for scientific independence, and previous RAs working with us have contributed to multiple publications and presented their work at international conferences.

What you’ll do:

• Perform experimental research in technology development of novel methods for profiling of nucleic acid and protein biomarkers from human biofluids.
• Perform computational analysis of high-throughput methods of analyzing nucleic acids and proteins
• Work in collaboration with senior lab members to establish automation using liquid handling instruments.
• Provide training and guidance to other lab members on experimental technique
• Perform lab maintenance such as maintaining and/or purchasing equipment and ordering supplies, as required
• Present data at internal Wyss meetings with supervision from senior lab members
• Demonstrate a commitment to teamwork, scientific rigor, and collaboration within and across teams

What you'll need: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science or related field is required.
• Two or more years of experience in molecular biology or biochemistry, including experience with molecular biology techniques and constructing/optimizing NGS libraries or mass spectrometry-based proteomics, is required.

Desirable skills:

• Programming experience in Python and/or R and analyzing NGS/proteomics data is required. 
• Full time, post-university research experience is strongly preferred, however exceptional candidates with two or more years of undergraduate research experience are encouraged to apply.
• Experience with RNA biology and/or protein biochemistry is advantageous
• Experience (or, at least, interest) in automated liquid handling is advantageous

• Appointment End Date: This is a one year term position with the possibility of renewal
• 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, Education,

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

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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 054. 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.