Senior Research Associate / Lab Manager

Job Description

The Stevens lab is seeking a dynamic and motivated experimental biologist to join us in the neurobiology division of the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at Broad, to collaboratively design, execute, and manage research in neuroimmunology, synapse development, and the impacts of genetic variation on neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease.

The Stevens lab applies cutting-edge methods to human stem cell-derived cultures, human and non-human primate tissues, and mouse models to understand how interactions between the brain's immune cells, glia, and neurons influence the development and dysfunction of synapses and circuits. We use these models to investigate how genetic variants and environmental risk factors disrupt brain development and function in patients with serious mental illness or neurodegenerative disease, and identify potential therapeutic strategies. Our lab collaborates closely across the neurobiology, genetics, and therapeutics groups at the Stanley Center, as well as with many labs across Boston, the U.S., and abroad. A successful candidate in this role will contribute to multiple projects supporting the overall goals of the Stanley Center to improve mental health through groundbreaking basic and translational research.

Candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and at least four years of wet-lab research experience (or MS and 2+ years experience). Relevant knowledge and skills include cell/tissue culture & sterile technique (including work with human ESC/iPSC); flow cytometry; basic molecular biology methods (e.g., PCR, DNA/RNA/protein purification, cloning, Western blotting); and mouse husbandry and procedures. Attention to detail, careful note-keeping, and experience developing, modifying, and troubleshooting experimental protocols are critical. Experience training and managing junior colleagues is a plus, as are an interest in or aptitude for project management; however, candidates with the right attitude and interest can be trained on the job in these areas.

The Stevens lab and the Broad Institute provide an outstanding environment for career development through formal scientific and leadership training programs, informal mentorship opportunities, and exposure to diverse, cutting-edge science and scientists. Our ideal candidate is seeking a permanent position in which to grow and develop as a scientist and team leader.

Day-to-day responsibilities

• Work with team members and collaborators to design and execute experiments essential to the group's collective success.
• Prepare and maintain human and mouse cell cultures, including embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hES, iPSC) and their derivatives.
• Use flow cytometry, widefield and confocal fluorescence microscopy, immuno-assays (WB/ELISA), qPCR, and other methods to perform QC and functional assays.
• Consult the literature, supervisor, and scientific staff to research, try, troubleshoot, and optimize new methods that may be relevant to our projects.
• Liaise with Broad platforms and programs (CDoT, GP, Imaging) for access to methods and equipment enabling high-throughput assays.
• Support the team through ordering & inventory management, data & computing resource management, equipment maintenance, and supervision of protocols (e.g. IACUC, IRB) and legal agreements (e.g. MTA, DUL).
• Help train and supervise junior RA's, undergraduate interns, and visiting scientists.
• Attend and present data at team meetings, and be an active contributor to lab discussions and collaborations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's of science degree in cell or molecular biology, neuroscience, or a related field, plus four years of relevant lab experience (or Master's degree and two years' experience).
• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
• Team player with a high level of initiative and motivation; ability to work both independently and with a team.
• Ability to think creatively to solve problems, and to know when to ask for help.
• Curiosity to learn new things and a passion to make a difference in the lives of patients by advancing the science of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.

All Broad employees, regardless of work location, must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by Tuesday, October 12, 2021. Requests for exemption for medical or sincerely held religious beliefs will be considered.

The Broad Institute will not offer Visa sponsorship for this opportunity.

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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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