Research Assistant I

The Research Assistant will work in a vibrant community at Harvard Medical School, Department of Genetics, to advance biomedical discovery, education, and innovation. The role involves working alongside world-renowned faculty and contributing to the development of new experimental methods. The successful candidate will participate in group meetings, contribute to manuscript and experimental protocol preparation, and attend seminar series within Harvard Medical School.

What You Will Do

The Research Assistant will execute experiments in bacterial genetics and directed evolution, perform molecular cloning, PCR, plasmid and reagent preparation, and standard E. coli genetic manipulations. They will also contribute to downstream characterization of engineered strains in both in vitro and in vivo experiments, including sample collection and processing for molecular analyses.

Why It Might Be a Fit

The position requires careful experimental execution, attention to detail, a dynamic and dedicated work ethic, and the ability to critically evaluate experimental results. The successful candidate will have prior hands-on experience with RNA work, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation, and genetic manipulation of E. coli or related bacterial species.

Requirements

• At least one year of related work experience in a molecular biology laboratory
• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline
• Prior hands-on experience with RNA work, including RNA extraction, quality control, and handling under RNase-free conditions
• Demonstrated experience with Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) library preparation
• Genetic manipulation of E. coli or related bacterial species (DNA transformation, plasmid extraction, PCR, molecular cloning)

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts, and campus perks