3 Ancient DNA Research Technicians at Harvard Medical School
(Apply here:
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Research Assistant II, Harvard Medical School, 49170BR

Job Code403112

Duties & Responsibilities
We offer an opportunity to support a cutting edge ancient DNA laboratory
at Harvard Medical School that is studying the impact of human history on
biology and disease.  The successful candidate will assume a research
technician position and will work closely with scientists studying
DNA from human remains dating back over the last 20,000 years.
Please visit our website for more information about our research:
https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Freich.hms.harvard.edu%2F&data=02%7C01%7Cpamela.diggle%40uconn.edu%7C1f6ea368ef2046fbe28808d6e58e7e5a%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636948797500077890&sdata=4XE%2F9bnsB2FLLXIWeHEScwAxrYV%2FRA6s%2FGi%2BZH2brVQ%3D&reserved=0

An article on the work in ancient DNA carried
out in our laboratory can be found here:
https://nam01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nytimes.com%2F2018%2F03%2F20%2Fscience%2Fdavid-reich-human-migrations.html&data=02%7C01%7Cpamela.diggle%40uconn.edu%7C1f6ea368ef2046fbe28808d6e58e7e5a%7C17f1a87e2a254eaab9df9d439034b080%7C0%7C0%7C636948797500077890&sdata=8VxsGEVwDwcwdruOrWL1WbKbZHBT2XCZnIEVJKdsXpw%3D&reserved=0

We have three positions available. This is an ideal opportunity for
candidates with several different backgrounds:
(1) Experienced research technicians with a background in sterile
technique and/or genomics who seek employment in an exciting and
rapidly moving field.
(2) Undergraduates interested in a career in the field of Ancient
Biomolecules and seeking experience in a world-class ancient DNA
lab.
(3) Physical anthropologists with experience in analyzing skeletal
material (we would train candidates with this background in
molecular work).

The Research Assistant II will be responsible for the following:
– Sample preparation in a clean room environment to prepare for DNA
extraction
– Extracting of DNA and preparation for sequencing in a clean room
environment
– Amplification of DNA, cleanup, and enrichment of libraries
– Sequencing the DNA
– Working with liquid handling robots
– Keeping a meticulous record of experiments and analyses in a lab book
and database
– Amplification of DNA, cleanup, and enrichment of libraries
– Sequencing the DNA
– Working with liquid handling robots
– Keeping a meticulous record of experiments and analyses in a lab book
and database
– Decontaminating equipment and work surfaces after every experiment
– Cleaning the clean rooms and equipment on a regular basis
– Frequent discussions with laboratory colleagues working on ancient DNA
– Occasional sample preparation in a non-cleanroom environment
such as museum
– Preparing, ordering, and maintaining stocks of necessary
– Documenting, compiling, and analyzing experimental data
– Updating supervisors by presenting oral and written reports
– Reading relevant scientific literature
– Working well in a team of research technicians with identical duties

Basic Qualifications
College background or equivalent work experience. At least one-year
laboratory experience required (relevant coursework may count towards
experience). Laboratory experience in addition to course work required.

Additional Qualifications
Bachelor¢s degree in the life sciences with hands-on research
experience in basic laboratory techniques and understanding of molecular
biology principles or a bachelor¢s degree in physical anthropology or
archaeology preferred. Familiarity with genomics (library preparation
and sequencing) and sterile techniques, or alternatively skeletal
analysis. Meticulous work habits including keeping a detailed and accurate
lab notebook.Skilled at trouble-shooting experiments and critical thinking
about experiments and results.The ability to multi-task to take care of
the general well-being of the laboratory.Previous work in an Ancient DNA
laboratory. Familiarity with genetics and next-generation sequencing
Medical Diagnostics or Microarray Fabrication (either in academia
or industry).Familiarity with Cell Culture with training in sterile
technique.Excellent written, documentation and oral communication
skills.Computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Word
and Excel.

Harvard offers an outstanding benefits package including:
– Time Off: 3 – 4 weeks paid vacation, paid holiday break, 12 paid sick
days, 11.5 paid holidays, and 3 paid personal days per year.
– Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical plans,
dental & vision plans, all coverage begins as of your start date.
– Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with full vesting after
3 years of service.
– Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program,
$40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and discounted options
through participating Harvard grad schools.
– Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as
additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
– Wellness options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no
cost, including stress management, massages, nutrition, meditation,
and complementary health services.
– Harvard access to athletic facilities, libraries, campus events and
many discounts throughout metro Boston.

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for
this position.

“Reich, David Emil” <reich@genetics.med.harvard.edu>