Research Technician at Massachusetts General Hospital(MGH) in Boston, Massachusetts

Job Description:

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT: Summarize the nature and level of work performed.


The Laboratory Research Technician serves to assist a Principal Investigator in a neurosurgical research laboratory. Primary responsibilities are to assist in experiments for research projects under supervision of the project head and the PI of the laboratory. This includes collection of and accurate recording of procedures and results, maintenance of databases used in the lab, ordering necessary reagents to conduct experiments, and participation in joint upkeep of the lab. This position requires a person who has Bachelor of Science degree in molecular/cell biology or a related field, pays attention to details, is capable of working independently after training, possesses good verbal and written communication skills, and works well as part of a team.



PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:



Please note, the functions below are representative of major duties that are typically associated with these positions. Specific responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Similarly, not all duties that have been outlined will be assigned to each position.

• Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. - pipetting, cell and tissue culture, etc.)


• Maintains laboratory notebook


• Understands and applies basic scientific techniques


• Conducts analysis of results and may begin interpretation of results


• Sets up and prepares routine experiments as directed


• Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment


• May perform independent literature searches


• Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation


• Maintains and orders supplies

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:



Synthesizes and interprets information obtained from graphs, charts, laboratory experiments, statistical summaries and other data collection methods in order to develop new investigative techniques and/or to determine the most appropriate direction of research. Synthesis may involve use of computer programs.


Prepares written reports on status of research, determination of technical procedures, sequence of operations, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions. Collaborates with supervisor in writing and editing material for publication and may appear as principal or secondary author on publications.


Carries out a wide range of moderate to complex lab techniques such as, but not limited to, chromatography, electrophoreses, animal surgery, histology, histochemistry, PCR, nucleic acid extraction from tissue and liquid specimens, and cell culture work.


Independently modifies techniques as necessary to meet research and/or experimental needs.


May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, electron microscope, scintillation center, ultra-centrifuges and other scientific equipment related to research activity.


Provide functional guidance and immediate supervision to lower level technical personnel.


May teach moderately difficult to complex lab techniques to students and research personnel.



SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Ability to work independently and as a team member


• Good communication skills


• Computer literacy


• Working knowledge of clinical research protocols


• Ability to perform multiple tasks independently


• Proficiency in Word, Power point, Excel, and Internet searches preferred.
  
  

• Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies

Qualifications

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree required.
  
  

EXPERIENCE:

• New graduates with some lab experience (via course work, internships, etc.) or those without any prior research experience will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above.


• Those with a minimum of 1 year of directly related work experience post degree will be considered for a Research Technician II position.

EEO Statement

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Apply Now