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Why join Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

The Wilson lab in the Department of Neurobiology is seeking a Research Assistant II to assist us in mapping networks of brain cells using a combination of genetic tools and microscopy. Our lab studies these networks using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. We need a team member to assist us in generating new genetic lines and performing experiments. This position offers the opportunity to learn cutting-edge neuroscience techniques, to become broadly knowledgeable about biomedical research and systems neuroscience, and to work as part of a tight-knit team of energetic, experienced research scientists.

Duties:

Performing electrophysiological recordings from Drosophila neurons, performing behavioral experiments on genetically modified Drosophila, dissecting brains and performing immunostaining protocols, training other team members, logging and analyzing data, contributing ideas to group discussions about research strategy.

Working Conditions:

Standard wet-laboratory environment at Harvard Medical School.

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.

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in the biological sciences, physical sciences, engineering, math, or computer science or related discipline.
• One to two years of related work experience (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Extended experience in an academic research laboratory is required, either at least one year of part-time work (e.g., as part of an undergraduate thesis project), or else at least 3 months of full-time work (e.g., as a summer job).
• Applicant must have strong organizational skills, communication skills, attention to detail, and a proven ability to work in teams.
• A two-year commitment is preferred, given that the team will be investing several months in training the person hired into this position, and their position within the team will be critical.
• The most qualified candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related fields.
• Prior work in Drosophila genetics, immunohistochemistry, or confocal imaging is preferred, but not required.
• Full-time laboratory work experience exceeding 6 months is preferred but not required.

• Appointment End Date: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.