Research Technician

The faculty in MBM are united by a common interest in the biology of microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) and the effects of microbes on human and animal hosts. The microbial pathogens program studies microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, with emphasis on rigorous analysis of these pathogens and the immune responses that restrict them. Program investigators direct detailed studies of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and eukaryotic parasites. Research topics include structural analysis of virus entry, viral evolution, viral oncogenes, intracellular bacterial pathogens, microorganisms that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, intracellular signaling, pathogen adhesion, genetic determinants involved in susceptibility to infection, vaccine development, and identification of novel antimicrobial agents.

Under close supervision of the principal investigator, other lab members, and senior scientists in collaborating labs who are familiar with the techniques required, the Research Technician will conduct experiments aimed at identifying diagnostic biomarkers of Lyme disease. This will include running serological assays such as ELISAs, protein purification, and microbiological techniques. The project may develop to require studies in an animal model of infection. Additional duties may be based around the other interests of the lab, including drug screening and the study of bacterial metabolism.

In these capacities, the Research Technician will also record test results and analyze data using statistics.
Most of the work will use human-source material and will be carried out under BSL-2 conditions using biosafety cabinets.
The work for this project will involve collaborations with industry and academia. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively, be flexible in daily and weekly tasks, and work well with others.

• Conduct routine experiments:
  • follow and design appropriate protocols/procedures to achieve results and test specific hypotheses.
  • perform techniques such as ELISAs, PCRs and protein purifications.
• Record results and perform data analysis
  
  • keep accurate records of experiments and results
  • perform data interpretation/summarization including graphing and statistical analysis.
  • communicate findings to PI and others on the project,
  • interact scientifically with lab mates
  • analyze quantitative data, interpret results, and assist lab members in writing materials for publication and presentation.
• Help with laboratory operations (as all lab members do), including (but not limited to) maintaining communal stocks and supplies, maintaining equipment, and lab administration.

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired through BS degree in science or engineering with familiarity and some experience in molecular biology.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Under supervision of the Principal Investigator, other lab members, the Research Technician should have the following skills to conduct a variety of experiments. These may include:
  • Culture bacterial cells
  • Molecular cloning techniques such as PCR
  • Serological or diagnostic assays such as ELISA
  • Recording test results and analyze data using statistics
• Consistent attention to detail, record keeping, and excellent communication skills are essential. Knowledge of MS Office products, statistical/quantitative analysis and computation is necessary.