Research Assistant I - Lab

The Synthetic Biology Hive (https://synbiohive.org/) is a new hub for synthetic biology research in the Boston area. The Hive aims to tackle the urgent problems of today — climate change, food insecurity, pandemics and many more — using the powerful tools made possible by a deep understanding of biological processes. Our mission is two-fold: pioneer novel solutions to global problems and train the individuals who will lead the transition to a new biology-based economy.

We are seeking a Research Assistant for our MUPPETS project, which aims to develop methods for preserving pathogens for research. In addition, this position will aim in related projects with the CDC and commercial entities around pandemic preparedness and diagnostic development. This position will support lab projects including (1) maintaining and propagating 100s of pathogens (bacteria, fungal, and viral); (2) perform high throughput viability testing; (3) cell culture work; (4) utilizing various equipment such as qPCR and robotics (not a prerequisite skill); and (5) performing molecular biology lab techniques.

The RA will participate in group meetings and collaborate in writing papers and reports to funding agencies. They will attend seminar series within HMS and take part in the scientific and intellectual life of the lab, Harvard Medical School, and the broader MUPPETS team. Strong applicants should be self-motivated and equally adept working independently and bringing their skills to a collaborative and conscientious multidisciplinary team.

This is an exciting position for a recent graduate who wishes to explore the interface between academic research and industrial-scale solutions for global problems. The successful candidate will receive training in robotics, safety, and experimental design.

• College background or equivalent work experience.
• At least one-year related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

High level of reliability and organization.

This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position.

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.

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

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• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.