Research Technician

The main interest of the Shreffler lab is in the mechanisms underlying allergy and tolerance to food allergens. Our lab is mainly focused on human immunology, and we primarily perform experiments with blood samples from allergic subjects enrolled in various clinical trials, as well as non-allergic blood donors. We are studying both innate and adaptive immune responses to allergens and other stimuli, in various types of immune cells. In order to do this, we utilize a wide variety of research techniques including cell isolation, cell culture, gene expression analysis, PCR, flow cytometry and cell sorting, next generation sequencing (RNAseq, TCRseq), and protein level quantification. In addition, we utilize several software and programming platforms for data collection and analysis. Our lab is highly collaborative, and members are engaged in a variety of projects across different institutions. We are looking for a research technician to play an interactive and integral role in these studies.

Candidates for this position should have a solid background in biology and a strong interest in immunology and molecular biology. In addition, experience with computer programming and complex data analysis is highly preferred. This position would be ideal for those candidates interested in gaining significant experience in biomedical research and considering future graduate studies.

Current projects focus on understanding IgE-mediated food allergy, eosinophilic esophagitis, and the development of the allergic immune response in young children through a combination of wetlaband bioinformatic analysis of the cellular immune response.

Candidates withlaboratory experience outside of formal coursework (summers, thesis projects) are strongly preferred. Those with cumulative full-timelaboratory research experience totaling 12 months or greater may be hired as a Technician II. Interest in developing skills in bioinformatic analysis of results is a plus, but experience in R or Python is not required. The ideal candidate has excellent organizational skills, is excited to independently drive projects forward, and enjoys learning and troubleshooting new techniques.

The technician will work under the direct supervision of post-docs, junior faculty members, and the PI, and collaborate with a team of 9 clinical research coordinators. For candidates interested in future MD or MD/PhD training, shadowing or limited clinical research coordinator experience can also be arranged, but this position is primarily alaboratory one in the Charlestown Navy Yard facility.

Duties will include:

- Molecular biological techniques, including DNA and RNA isolation, PCR, and quantitative PCR

- Isolation, purification, culturing and cryopreservation of primary white blood cells from human samples

- Flow cytometry and cell sorting

- Participation in general laboratory responsibilities, including ordering and organizing laboratory supplies and reagents, safety maintenance, and laboratory equipment maintenance

- Administration and management of lab duties

-Sample shipping

- Supporting ongoing clinical trials via

-Supporting allergic disease biorepository efforts via sample processing, storage, and tracking

- Participation in collaborations

- Aiding in complex data analysis of large datasets

- Laboratory ordering and inventory management

-Longitudinal projects using techniques including but not limited to: traditional and high-dimensional flow cytometry, cell sorting, cell culture, cell migration assays, protein gels and Western blotting, RNA sequencing including single-cell, ELISA, measurement of allergen-specific immunoglobulins via the ImmunoCAP platform. Previous experience in these techniques is a plus, but on-the-jobtraining will be provided.

-IRB and IBC regulatory

- Other duties as assigned by the team

Requirements:

- Bachelor's Degree, with coursework in related fields such as Immunology, Molecular Biology and/or Biochemistry

- Previous laboratory experience is strongly preferred, even though required techniques will be taught upon joining the lab

- Proficiency with computer software, including Word, Power Point and Excel

- Experience with the programming language R or other programming languages is highly preferred

- Must be reliable, organized, and able to work independently as well as with other members of the team and collaborators

- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

-CV, Cover letter, College Transcript must be attached with application