Job Description

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT: Summarize the nature and level of work performed.

The Research Technician I performs work to support research projects in the Division of Surgical Oncology in the research laboratory studying therapeutics for meningeal metastases. The Research Technician I will examine novel molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and Bioluminescence strategies to non-invasively study tumor growth and response to therapy in animal models and confirm the in vivo scans with in vitro laboratory research methodologies.

Duties will include: performs or assists in experiments for research projects under supervision of the project head and the PI of the laboratory, collect and accurately record procedures and results, order necessary reagents to conduct experiments and participates in joint upkeep of the lab.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Indicate key areas of responsibility, major job duties, special projects and key objectives for this position. These items should be evaluated throughout the year and included in the written annual evaluation.

Carries out a wide range of moderate to complex lab techniques such as, but not limited to, cell culture, virus propagation, harvest tissue, real-time PCR, western blotting, small animal surgery, histology, histochemistry, and primary tumor or cell collection.

Work with rodents (mice) to assist in preparing animals for surgery and monitor after surgery and thereafter. Record changes in animal weight or behavior as required by the study.

Collect and record study data. Interpret information obtained from graphs, charts, laboratory experiments, and statistical summaries. Interpret results to develop new investigative techniques and/or to determine the most appropriate direction of research. Notifies and seeks assistance from senior lab personnel or supervisor for any questions, unusual experimental conditions or results or needed training.

Maintains lab notebooks. Prepares written reports on status of research, determination of technical procedures, sequence of operations, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions. Collaborates with supervisor in writing and editing material for publication and may appear as principal or secondary author on publications.

May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, microscope, scintillation center, ultra-centrifuges, bioluminescence scanner and other scientific equipment related to research activity.

Participates in the upkeep of the lab; this includes keeping both direct and general work spaces clean and tidy and help maintain an overall safe and clean environment. May perform, or refer as needed, routine maintenance of lab equipment to include organizing freezers, cleaning and replacing of parts. Report equipment malfunctions and needs to management.

Work safely within the lab environment and in performing work duties. Wear personal protective equipment as required.

Attend and may make presentations at lab meetings and journal clubs.

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED: Must be realistic, measurable, objective, and related to the essential functions of the job.

Understand scientific information, principles and research techniques

Ability to perform laboratory experiments and utilize laboratory equipment

Self-motivated and able to strictly follow instructions and work independently and efficiently

Ability to work carefully, accurate and consistent with instruction or protocol

Must be able to work safely with the proper and meticulous use protective equipment

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Internet searches helpful

Is knowledgeable and compliant in all hospital, State and Federal regulatory requirements, including hospital policy and procedures (where applicable to the performance of the job), Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS and/or REGRISTRATIONS (if applicable): Specify minimum credentials and clearly indicate if required or preferred.

None

EDUCATION: Specify minimum education and clearly indicate if required or preferred.

Bachelor's degree in biological or physical sciences

EXPERIENCE: Specify minimum creditable years of experience and clearly indicate if required or preferred.

Experience working in a basic science laboratory as attained through education required

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable): List the number of FTEs supervised.

None

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable): Indicate financial scope information, i.e.: size of budget, volume, revenue, etc. Indicate total physician/non-physician FTE scope.

None

WORKING CONDITIONS: Describe the conditions in which the work is performed.

Duties will be performed in a research laboratory. This setting may create contact or exposure to one or more of the following: chemicals, fluids, sharp instruments and other supplies and equipment consistent with a research lab. Contact or exposure may be airborne or physical.

Work will be conducted over a forty-hour workweek, but actual schedule can be flexible.

Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.
EEO Statement
Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged