Research Lab Tech II (Bispo)
Mass. Eye and Ear (MEE)

The Research Assistant II position involves both research and administrative responsibilities. Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Assistant conducts independent and collaborative research involving the development of culture-independent molecular tests for diagnostics of ocular infections and novel treatment strategies that are often guided by antimicrobial resistance surveillance and molecular epidemiology studies. Administrative duties, include (but are not limited to) maintenance of laboratory inventories, ordering laboratory supplies, biohazardous shipping, and oversees maintenance of laboratory equipment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, conducts collaborative and independent research that involves diagnostic microbiology and molecular biology tools including, but not limited to:

Specialized antimicrobial susceptibility testing to determine the minimal inhibitory concentration of antimicrobial agents and to confirm important resistance phenotypes.

Development and validation of molecular diagnostic tests in collaboration with research and clinical scientists.

Analytical validations of a highly multiplexed diagnostic panel for detection of clinically relevant ocular pathogens.

Use of molecular biology tools (PCR and subtyping methods) for detection of antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes, determination of microbial population compositions and identification of bacterial and fungal pathogens.

Preparation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) libraries for bacterial genome sequencing.

Support in developing and optimizing NGS approaches for pathogen detection from clinical samples.

Completes appropriate training for each research project. Adheres to all Institute policies and procedures, attends annual training sessions, and additional trainings if needed.

Maintains accurate records of research findings and results in a detailed up-to-date laboratory notebook.

Maintains folder with current, up-to-date protocols.

Participates in weekly laboratory meetings and presents findings (schedule determined by Principal Investigator).

Contributes to the development and assembly of Principal Investigator abstracts, posters, and slide presentations for scientific meetings.

Completes and/or coordinates the collection, processing and storage of experimental samples, and maintains a detailed record for future use.

Maintains multiple laboratory inventories: purchasing, chemical, drug and biological materials.

Oversees maintenance of -80° freezer, -20° fridge and 4° fridge. This includes on call responsibilities in the event of after hour freezer failures.

Performs ordering for the laboratory, completing the necessary training, and creating and managing all purchase orders.

Oversees the shipping and receiving of biohazardous material from and to the lab and stays current with all required training.

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, will oversee the orientation and training of new/junior research assistant/summer students.

Attends seminars and symposiums as opportunities arise, when not interfering with experiments.

Performs other laboratory related functions as required or directed.

Qualifications
Bachelor's degree with research expertise (2+ years). Experience in molecular biology and microbiology. Experience in clinical and diagnostic microbiology is preferred. Candidates will be expected to work independently but must also be capable of working collaboratively with individuals from a range of backgrounds, including clinicians, microbiologists, and industry-based researchers. Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Well organized and detail-oriented. Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work will primarily take place in a research laboratory setting. Job may require exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues, bio-hazardous or toxic substances. Potential Exposure to Blood Borne Pathogens.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Requires clear vision at 20 inches or less and depth perception. Work requires some lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Position requires alertness and manual dexterity

EEO Statement
Massachusetts Eye and Ear is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, sex, pregnancy or conditions related to pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, disability, military status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs

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