We are seeking a research technician to join a cutting-edge cancer epigenetics laboratory at Massachusetts General Hospital. The position is intended to provide experimental support for projects related to the organization of the cancer genome and its influence on radio- and chemo-therapeutic response, as well as shared lab management responsibilities. The lab develops and utilizes cutting-edge tools for the genome-wide analysis of chromatin state in normal and malignant cell populations. Areas of ongoing focus include defining the relationship between nuclear organization (“topology”) and therapeutic response, as well as utilization of targeted genetic screens to identify of epigenetic factors crucial to therapeutic response.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• 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 

A Research Technician II performs the duties of a Research Technician I (above) and may also: 

• Execute protocols of non-routine experiments 
• Assist the PI(s) with determining the most suitable methodology 
• Perform basic design and modification of protocols 
• Calculate, transcribe and analyze data 
• Prepare and present reports 
• Organize and summarize acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques. 
• Organize and/or draft material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts and other documents for publication and/or presentation. 
• Participate in the design of experiments or field work. 

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 

The Research Technician II should also possess: 

• Analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical problems 
• Ability to interpret acceptability of data results 
• Working knowledge of data management programs 
• 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 will be considered for a Research Technician II position.