Department Description: The Scully lab is looking for an energetic research assistant to play a key role in the life of the lab, while gaining training in all aspects of cellular and molecular biology. The research assistant will work in our dynamic, highly interactive and supportive group, focused on mammalian DNA repair and cancer therapy. The research assistant will participate in all aspects of the lab, including training in basic molecular biology and advanced, cutting edge techniques. Responsibilities will include lab maintenance, ordering of reagents, communication with other lab members and participation in the lab's research program. The ideal candidate will be a science enthusiast with excellent communication skills and a sociable temperament. No previous training is required, but enthusiasm, commitment, a proactive attitude and eagerness to learn are essential.
Job Location: Boston, MA
Req ID: 40122BR
Job Summary: Under supervision of the principal investigator, conducts a variety of routine experiments using molecular, cell biology and/or biochemistry techniques. Records test results, calculates, transcribes, and analyzes data using basic statistics.
Essential Responsibilities:
Conducts routine tests following established procedures, which may include assays, DNA sequencing, tissue culture, protein purification, Southern blotting, PCR analysis, electrophoresis, chromatography.
Researches and collects basic study data through monitoring devices and maintains daily logs/basic records of methodologies and test results. With supervision, using databases, may summarize data and interpret results using descriptive statistics and basic hypothesis testing.
May write standard operating procedures for documentation and make informal presentations of these procedures to others in the lab.
Performs literature searches and library investigations as they relate to the research and/or as assigned.
Due to the dynamic environment in which research exists, must show flexibility in performing principal duties and responsibilities as research projects evolve.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Life Science or a related scientific field required.
0-1 years related work experience required.
Familiarity with basic laboratory instruments and equipment, computers (databases, spreadsheets, statistics) and scientific procedures.
Basic familiarity with computers. Ability to navigate at a basic level within web-based applications.
Competencies:
Decision Making: Ability to make decisions that are based on specific instructions, standard practices and established procedures which generally require little or no supervision.
Problem Solving: Ability to address problems that are routine, somewhat repetitive and generally solved by following clear directions and procedures and by identifying opportunities for process improvements.
Independence of Action: Ability to follow general instructions and procedures as provided. Work is monitored by supervisor/manager.
Written Communications: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written English with internal and external customers.
Oral Communications: Ability to understand spoken English in order to follow basic safety instructions and take direction from supervisors; communicate effectively in basic English with patients, families and medical center staff in response to routine questions.
Knowledge: Ability to demonstrate basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices and procedures with the ability to use them in routine situations. Specialized knowledge not required.
Team Work: Ability to interact respectfully with other employees, professional staff and/or external contacts to offer ideas, identify issues, obtain information or deliver services.
Customer Service: Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude and respond to requests in a timely and respectful manner.
Physical Nature of the Job: Light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Some elements of the job are sedentary, but the employee will be required to stand for periods of time or move through out the hospital campus
