Research Technician, Cell Sorting - Catteruccia Lab

The lab of Dr. Flaminia Catteruccia at Harvard University is looking for a collaborative and self-driven Research Technician to support various research projects of the lab and usage of a high throughput cell sorter.

The Catteruccia Lab studies the molecular and behavioral parameters that are key to the ability of the Anopheles mosquitoes to transmit malaria, with special emphasis on reproductive biology and vector-Plasmodium interactinos.  Their aim is to provide crucial knowledge to aid in the development of new, effective tools for mosquito and malaria control.  A key component of their research involves fieldwork studies in Africa on mating biology and natural malaria infections.  These studies, in collaboration with IRSS in Burkina Faso, ICIPE in Kenya and other partners, are expanding our understanding of mosquito reproductive biology, mosquito-microbiota interactions, and natural malaria infections.  More information can be found on the lab website.

In this role, you will serve as an integral part of the lab’s research, and grow into eventually serving as the subject matter expert for usage of the high throughput cell sorter.  We are looking for someone who is intelligent, self-driven, and a problem solver at heart.

What You Will Do

• Champion the lab’s usage of a high throughput cell sorter

  • This role will be have the opportunity to partner with researchers from across the lab, and will work with a variety of researchers to determine technique design and to manage scheduling of the high throughput cell sorter

• Will manage adherence to institutional biosafety and use standards, and keep compliance records/logs up-to-date.

• Assist in the design and execution of projects relating reproductive biology and Mosquito pathways that facilitate Plasmodium development

• Conduct literature reviews to be used in determining most suitable research methods.

• Prepare and present written or oral progress reports concerning studies, including assembly, organization, and interpretation of data.

• Present data to the entire lab (lab meetings ~1-2 times a year), and occasionally at scientific meetings.

• Train others in technical protocols.

Experience You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology or related area, or equivalent experience

  • Graduate degree a plus

• At least 2 years of hands-on, post-graduate experience working in a research lab

• Prior experience with high throughput cell sorters required

• Prior hands-on experience working with cell cultures

• Excellent troubleshooting and organizational abilities.

• Self-motivated and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction

• Excellent oral communication and interpersonal skills.

• Collaborative spirit and a willingness to dive in where help is needed within the lab

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances. 

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.