Research Assistant III - Res G&C - MCRI

Job Description

This position reports to Jonas Galper, MD, PhD and is responsible for assisting with the design, implementation, and evaluation of various research projects. This position may act as lead or working supervisor of the lab. The Galper laboratory investigates how the autonomic nervous system, lipid metabolism and associated signaling pathways regulate cardiac function and predispose to cardiovascular disease with a focus on identifying new pathways for therapeutic intervention. Dr. Galper works in collaboration with Dr. Robert Blanton, whose lab focuses on signaling mechanisms of cardiac hypertrophy and LV dysfunction. The laboratory utilizes molecular and electrophysiologic approaches both in vivo and at the single cell level to establish mechanisms of arrhythmogenesis and left ventricular dysfunction in mouse models for diabetes and the metabolic syndrome.

• Modifies and designs new or existing experiments and protocols. Evaluates conclusions and has latitude to modify or devise methods or techniques to achieve desired results. Monitors and produces reports on the success/failure of the design.
• Performs complex or novel techniques in addition to a variety of routine laboratory tests and procedures according to prescribed protocols and assigned schedules.
• Maintains/ reviews records of results and methodology. Presents findings at lab meetings.
• Enforces established departmental policies and procedures, objectives, quality assurance programs, safety, environmental and infection control standards.
• Uses appropriate safety procedures for handling, storage and disposal of biohazardous, infectious, radioactive and toxic substances. Ensures that all lab members are in compliance with such procedures.
• Maintains tissue cultures from human and mouse specimens and transfection/infection of cells.
• Maintains mouse colonies, genotyping of mouse tissues, intraperitoneal injections and blood pressure measurements in mice.
• In conjunction with other laboratory members, maintains laboratory supplies and inventory.
• Troubleshoots procedures for effects of heat, humidity, and contamination if test results are unexpected or quality of specimen is poor. Recommends alternative routine procedures to cross-check own finding.
• Maintains department records, reports and files as required.
• Enhances professional growth and development through participation in educational programs, current literature, in-service meetings, and workshops.
• Attends meetings as required.
• Trains new staff and serves as a resource to other lab members, including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and other Research Assistants.
• Maintains collaborative, team relationships with peers and colleagues in order to effectively contribute to the working group’s achievement of goals, and to help foster a positive work environment.
• Performs other similar and related duties as required or directed.

Qualifications

• Excellent problem solving skills
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work under pressure as well as with other members of the research team
• Must possess strong oral and written communication skills, attention to detail and reliability
• Highly organized and highly trustworthy and thus able to work with both expensive equipment and highly precious resources (e.g., animals)
• Ability to prioritize quickly and appropriately
• Knowledge of general laboratory techniques including a sound foundation in basic cellular and molecular techniques

• Bachelor’s degree (e.g., in biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, or other bioscience program)

• 5 or more years experience in research related activities
• Experience in cell biology, pharmacology and animal handling are required. An understanding of hemodynamics, experience with echocardiography, protein handling and western blot analysis would be a plus.

An equivalent combination of education and experience which provides proficiency in the areas of responsibility listed above may be substituted for the above education and experience requirements.

• Normal laboratory environment. May be exposed to radioactivity, chemicals used in DNA, PCR technology and protein electrophoresis, biohazardous material, and replication deficient adenoviruses, under controlled conditions in accordance with institutional safety standard requirements.
• Must be able to perform all essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.
• May access PHI/HIPAA identifiers as part of daily tasks.

Additional Information

Must be able to perform all essential functions of this position with reasonable accommodation if disabled.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Tufts Medical Center reserves the right to modify position duties at any time, to reflect process improvements and business necessity.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.