Research Assistant I - Thiagarajah Lab

Position Summary:
A Research Assistant position is available in the Division of Gastroenterology at Boston Children's Hospital in the lab of Dr. Jay Thiagarajah. This position is ideal for candidates interested in basic and translational gastroenterology research. The Research Assistant will work as part of a team of scientists and clinicians who focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of genetic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Interested candidates are encouraged to include a cover letter with their application.

Key Responsibilities:

• Direct involvement in lab based projects and assisting other laboratory members.
• Under general supervision, performing a variety of routine and specialized laboratory tests, specimen preparations and experimental procedures for the purpose of research.
• Collaborate with members of the lab to implement and execute cell culture, generation of DNA constructs, and study of gene function using molecular and cellular assays.
• Collaborate with members of the lab to consent and recruit patients for research studies through personal interviews and written communications with patients/families. Provide detailed background information regarding studies to families, communicate all policies and procedures, and respond to all inquiries.
• Development and optimization of cell-based assays for novel drug discovery.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and presentations.
• Maintain records of results and methodologies in a log of work performed.
• Maintain equipment, lab area and supplies in a neat professional manner. Sterilize and clean glassware, prepare media and other materials using appropriate procedures.
• Contribute to presentations, technical reports and research publications.
• Perform statistical analyses and data quality assessments to ensure robust and reliable results.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Chemistry or a closely related field is required.

Experience:

• The analytical skills to resolve problems that require the use of basic scientific, mathematical, or technical principles.
• Experience in one or more of these experimental techniques: cell culture, western blot, mouse husbandry.
• Must be organized, detail-oriented, proactive, able to work independently as a member of a team, have good problem-solving skills and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Prior experience in a research laboratory is preferred.

Boston Children's Hospital offers competitive compensation and unmatched benefits including flexible schedules, affordable health, vision and dental insurance, child care and student loan subsidies, generous levels of time off, 403(b) Retirement Savings plan, Pension, Tuition and certain License and Certification Reimbursement, cell phone plan discounts and discounted rates on T-passes. Experience the benefits of passion and teamwork.