Research Assistant IV - Micro-Physiological Systems

About us:

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About you:

You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating and commercializing novel approaches to global challenges in health care and sustainability. You want to tackle challenging projects in a fast-paced, industry-focused environment with resources and support from top-notch scientific, operations, and administrative professionals. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your expertise to create innovations that can change the world. 

About the role:

We are looking for an enthusiastic and talented individual with previous experience in micro-physiological systems (MPS) to join the Bioinspired Therapeutics & Diagnostics platform as a senior and independent Research Assistant. You will significantly contribute to research programs on respiratory infectious diseases, post-infection chronic illness and cancer immunology funded by BARDA, ARPA-H and industry funded projects. You will work with primary cells derived from human blood or other tissues and be responsible for independently planning and executing scientific research involving microfluidic Organ on Chip primary cell culture as well as attenuated laboratory influenza strains or other biosafety level 2 pathogens. You will also develop and validate various in-vitro cell-based assays. You will be expected to work independently with minimal guidance from academic staff to design experiments, learn new skills, troubleshoot, and to contribute intellectually to the project.

What you'll do:

• Independently design and conduct organ chip experiments in consultation with other team members for lung chip projects
• Maintain records and inventory of viral stocks and human tissue samples, optimizing and validating cell-based assays
• Analyze results, use graphs and slides to present and discuss data with minimal guidance from senior team members
• Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts; present data and conclusions at meetings within the Wyss Institute in collaboration with senior staff
• Provide training and mentorship to junior technicians in completing organ chip experiments
• Order supplies, perform support activities and lab maintenance, and function in a team-oriented environment with other scientists and staff at the Institute.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the Wyss Institute’s community values of courage, collaboration, innovation, impact, diversity, and respect through actions, interactions, and communications with others

What you'll need:

• Bachelor’s degree in cell biology or biotechnology with at least three years of experience involving aseptic primary human cell culture and biology techniques, such as ELISA, qPCR, microscopy or related experience required. Advanced education may count towards years or experience.

Desirable Skills:

• Master’s degree in Cell Biology or Bioengineering preferred.
• Previous experience in micro-physiological systems (MPS) is a must.
• Candidates with experience in multiple primary cell types will be strongly considered.
• Experience with cell culture in microfluidic device.
• Ability to work well independently and to collaborate with a multidisciplinary group is essential.
• The candidate should be proficient with personal computers and applicable software packages (Microsoft Office).
• Additional experience in analysis software such as Prism, R, Image-J is a plus.
• Good written and oral communication skills are essential.
• The candidate should be highly motivated, detail-oriented, organized, and able to take initiative.

This is a one year term position with the possibility of renewal.

Harvard is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

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