Research Associate II - Cambridge, MA

The Stevens lab is seeking a dynamic and · motivated experimental biologist to join our group in the Program in Brain · Health at Broad, to · collaboratively design, execute, and manage research in neuroimmunology, · synapse development and function, and the impacts of genetic va ...

Job description

The Stevens lab is seeking a dynamic and

motivated experimental biologist to join our group in the Program in Brain

Health at Broad, to

collaboratively design, execute, and manage research in neuroimmunology,

synapse development and function, and the impacts of genetic variation on

neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, such as schizophrenia and

Alzheimer's disease.

The Stevens lab applies cutting-edge methods in human tissues and

human-relevant models to understand how interactions between the brain's immune

cells, glia, and neurons influence the development and dysfunction of synapses

and circuits. We center our work on assessment of gene expression and cellular

function in human tissue samples, both from the brain and from peripheral

immune compartments like the CSF and blood. Through the lens of human biology,

we are able to better understand the fundamental biology and etiology of

diseases that are uniquely found in human beings. Our lab collaborates closely

across the neurobiology, genetics, and therapeutics groups at the Stanley

Center for Psychiatric Research, as well as with many labs across Boston, the

U.S., and abroad. A successful candidate in this role will contribute to

multiple projects supporting the overall goals of the lab and the Program: to

improve brain health through groundbreaking basic and translational research.

Candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in biology or a related field and

at least four years of wet-lab research experience (or MS and 2+ years of

experience). Relevant knowledge and skills include preparation and staining of

human tissue; immunohistochemistry; RNAscope; fluorescent confocal microscopy

and image analysis; flow cytometry; and basic molecular biology methods (e.g.,

PCR, DNA/RNA/protein purification, cloning, Western blotting). 

Attention to

detail, careful note-keeping, and experience developing, modifying, and

troubleshooting experimental protocols are critical, as is clear and open

communication with colleagues both within and outside the lab.

The Stevens lab and the Broad Institute provide an outstanding environment for

career development through formal scientific and leadership training programs,

informal mentorship opportunities, and exposure to diverse, cutting-edge

science and scientists. Our ideal candidate is seeking a longer-term position

in which to grow and develop as a scientist and team leader.

Day-to-day responsibilities

• Work with team members and collaborators to design and execute experiments

essential to the group's collective success

• Work with project manager and lab manager to obtain, manage, and properly

store human tissue samples

• Section tissues, perform immunohistochemical staining, RNAscope, and other

tissue analysis techniques

• Perform confocal, light sheet, and light microscopy imaging of tissue samples

• Quantitatively assess tissue features such as cellular morphology, synapse

number, subcellular features, or frequency of expression of a marker

• Document experiments and generate detailed reports in the form of figures,

graphs, and slide decks

• Consult the literature, supervisor, and scientific staff to research, try,

troubleshoot, and optimize new methods that may be relevant to our projects

• Liaise with Broad platforms and programs (CDoT, GP/BCL, STP) for access to

methods and equipment enabling high-throughput assays

• Attend and present data at team meetings and be an active contributor to lab

discussions and collaborations

Requirements

• Bachelor's of science degree in cell or molecular biology, neuroscience, or a

related field, plus four years of relevant lab experience (or Master's degree

and two years' experience)

• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills

• A high level of initiative and motivation

• Ability to work both independently and with a team

• Ability to think creatively to solve problems, and to know when to ask for

help

• Curiosity to learn new things and a passion to make a difference in the lives

of patients by advancing the science of psychiatric and neurodegenerative

diseases

The Broad Institute will not offer visa sponsorship for this opportunity.

Pay Range: 58,000/yr - 80,667/yr

The expected base salary range for this position as listed above is based on a 40 hour per week schedule. Broad provides pay ranges representing its reasonable and good faith estimate of what the organization reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will vary based on factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, education, qualifications, and other factors permissible by law. At Broad, your base pay is just one part of a comprehensive total rewards package. From day one, this role offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and health savings accounts; at least 13 paid holidays; winter closure; paid time off; parental and family care leave; and an employee assistance program, among other Broad benefits.

The Broad Institute is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.

Should you need a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact for assistance.