Job Description

Research Assistant III

Harvard Medical School

68155BR

Job Summary

The HMS Electron Microscopy (EM) Core Facility is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Research Assistant III (RAIII) to join our dynamic team. The EM Core provides high-quality services and expert supervision in transmission and scanning electron microscopy to a large and diverse scientific community, including both basic research labs and industry. The RAIII will play a crucial role in supporting the daily operations of the EM Core, working independently under general supervision, and efficiently managing multiple tasks while delivering exceptional service.

Position Description

• Receive and prepare samples for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) including fixation, embedding, ultrathin sectioning, critical point drying, sputter coating, high-pressure freezing, freeze substitution, immunogold labeling, and negative staining.
• Perform imaging, data collection, and analysis for specific projects based on sample submission requests, either independently or in collaboration with clients. Assist in the training and operation of TEMs, SEMs, and ancillary equipment for sample preparation. Troubleshoot imaging challenges and assist with image analysis as required.
• Meet with investigators to help design experiments, determine the appropriate technologies, and identify optimal workflows for a wide variety of samples.
• Oversee the maintenance of lab equipment, manage inventory by ordering supplies, prepare reagents, and maintain vendor relationships. Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and lab protocols.
• Conduct ongoing literature reviews to stay current with new procedures and emerging research. Apply this knowledge to improve ongoing research and develop new protocols.
• Assist with administrative tasks such as generating quotes, billing for services, and other duties as required to support the operational efficiency of the EM Core.

Basic Qualifications

3+ years of experience working in an electron microscopy or related laboratory, preferably in a core facility setting.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree in basic science or biomedical related field.
• Proven experience working with transmission and scanning electron microscopy, sample preparation techniques, and imaging analysis.
• Good interpersonal skills with a high attention to detail, strong organizational and communication skills, ability to multi-task and work independently.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot technical issues with microscopy equipment.

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. 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.

Work Format Details

This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website 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.

Job Function

Research

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Boston

Job Code

403116 Research Assistant III Lab

Work Format

On-Site

Commitment to Equity, 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.

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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