Research Assistant Position Available in the Hollenhorst Laboratory
Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology

Harvard Medical School

Boston, MA, USA

The Hollenhorst Lab applies innovative biochemical strategies to study clinically relevant questions regarding the proteins that regulate bleeding and clotting. The goal is to further our understanding of the basic biology of hemostasis and thrombosis with an eye towards questions directly relevant to the care of patients. We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to perform experiments under the supervision of the principal investigator or senior lab member. The selected candidate will perform western blots, immunoprecipitation, protein purification, and prepare samples for mass spectrometry analysis. The individual will work with a high degree of independence, organize notebooks and manage data, and perform other laboratory experiments relevant for understanding platelets and coagulation factors. Ideal candidates will have training in wet lab techniques, strong organizational skills, and be motivated to further their career by learning and adopting new skills. While applicants from diverse backgrounds and career stages are welcome, this position is a particularly good fit for individuals who seek a 1-2 year research experience prior to applying to MD and/or PhD programs. The principal investigator will provide direct mentorship, clinical shadowing opportunities, and long-term career advice.

 

The Hollenhorst laboratory is located in the Harvard Institutes of Medicine building, 4 Blackfan Circle, in the center of the Longwood Medical Area. Our primary affiliations are the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Division of Hematology and Harvard Medical School. The laboratory works closely with the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT and is a member of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center. These institutions house scientific and clinical experts in a wide variety of areas, enabling interactions with a myriad of collaborators and communities. We have access to state-of-the-art core facilities for glycomics, proteomics, flow cytometry, etc. These rich resources allow laboratory members to thrive in a supportive and well-equipped environment.

• Perform routine and non-routine experiments, which are moderate to complex, with increasing independence. These include western blot, immunoprecipitation, protein purification by liquid chromatography, flow cytometry, and preparation of samples for mass spectrometry analysis. (Prior training in these techniques is helpful but is NOT required.)
• Process platelets and plasma samples from donors and patients.
• Maintain long-term tissue cultures of human cell lines, monitor cells for viability and contamination.
• Maintain a detailed electronic laboratory notebook to reproduce experiments precisely.
• Consult with the principal investigator and implement adjustments in experimental design.Prepare laboratory reagents and chemicals, organize storage. Meticulously maintain and update databases of laboratory supplies and storage. Order new supplies on time to maintain inventory.
• Oversee the lab’s Institutional Laboratory Safety and Biohazard protocols, amend as needed, and assure that all lab members are familiar with and adhere to the protocols.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment, if necessary.
• Become proficient in Excel, FlowJo, and GraphPad Prism as needed analyze and critically evaluate data.
• Present data and relevant research publications in lab meetings. Help to prepare presentations and written articles for publication.
• All other duties, as assigned.

None

• Laboratory environment with frequent work with toxic chemicals, biohazards, bloodborne pathogens, and substances emitting unpleasant odors.
• Work requires frequent standing, walking and frequent lifting or carrying supplies.

Required: 

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• Previous experience (6 months+) with techniques in experimental biology, chemistry and/or biochemistry.

• Previous work experience in an academic basic science laboratory.

 

• A positive attitude and eagerness to learn.
• Comfortable with working independently and in a team. Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to learn and perform a variety of laboratory protocols, to identify potential problems and troubleshoot solutions.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Ability to logically present data.
• Sound judgment regarding time-management and laboratory safety.

EEO Statement

 

Candidates should send the following application materials to Ms. Letice Arthur ([email protected]): 

• cover letter
• curriculum vitae or resume
• college transcript
• list of 3 references.

Posted February 13, 2023