Position Description

The Brugge lab has a long-standing interest in studying breast cancer using innovative techniques, with the ultimate goal of helping improve treatment strategies for patients. We are looking for a highly motivated research assistant to join our team. As a Research Assistant, you will be working on projects that investigate the mechanisms of breast cancer initiation and progression in breast tissues of women at high risk of developing breast cancer. You will be responsible for isolating cells from primary breast tissue for analysis using cutting-edge technologies as well as optimizing organoid cultures from these tissues, under the direct supervision and mentorship of a senior postdoctoral fellow. Former research assistants in the lab have made valuable contributions resulting in co-authorship in high-impact publications and have successfully moved on to MD and/or PhD programs as well as industry positions.

Responsibilities will include:

• Perform cell dissociation protocols on human breast tissues from donors who are high risk for breast cancer
• Perform single cell DNA sequencing experiments to identify single nucleotide variants and copy number alterations in breast epithelial cells
• Perform flow cytometry and FACS cell sorting
• Cell culture and aseptic technique, working with mice, DNA isolation
• Establish and maintain a database of donor samples that contain deidentified clinical information
• Assist in organoid culture and optimization of conditions to characterize early stages of tumorigenesis
• Assist in the design of laboratory experiments, techniques, and protocols
• Perform related laboratory maintenance such as maintaining and cleaning equipment and ordering supplies
• Maintain accurate and detailed record of experimental results

Basic Qualifications

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in biochemistry, cell biology, or a related discipline
• 1-2+ years of experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's or master's degree preferred
• Highly motivated, good work ethic, and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Follow protocols with attention to detail
• Produce accurate and high-quality work
• Think creatively to solve problems
• Excellent skills in communication, organization, and time management
• Database Management Certificate strongly desired
• Seeking a committed team member for 1+ years, depending on performance and funding

Additional Information

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.

Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre-placement medical evaluation.

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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Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• 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.

Work Format

On-Site


Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals. Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Values https://hms.harvard.edu/about-hms/campus-culture/mission-community-values-diversity-statement


EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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