The successful candidate will join the Translational Neuroimmune Psychiatry Program, a new research enterprise in the department of psychiatry led by Dr. Baum, its inaugural director. The lab seeks to discover novel, clinically useful biomarkers through interrogation of immune molecules using high-throughput biochemical and histochemical techniques. For example, the lab is trying to set up a novel platform to discover new auto-antibody syndromes that present with psychiatric symptoms that phenocopy idiopathic bipolar disorder and psychotic disorders. The lab is also interested in uncovering why some people with autoimmune disorders like lupus or infectious encephalitis have psychiatric symptoms and some do not, and in various immune-mediated rare medication adverse events.
Under the direction of the PI, the research assistant provides assistance with work related to laboratory research (including both experimental and analysis). Work may include histology (such as human tissue microarrays), liquid handling robotics, high-content imaging, as well as assistance in analysis of imaging datasets, and medium-sized datasets using R or similar environments, and management tasks. As the research program is in its earliest start-up stages, candidates must be motivated, independent, flexible and have good problem-solving abilities to tackle novel, unanticipated tasks necessary to complete the scientific goals. Should there be interest, there may also be opportunities for more translational research as well.
Responsibilities:
- Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. pipetting, cell and tissue culture etc.) following established methodologies.
- Conducts analysis of results, and may begin interpretation of results.
- Prepares and maintains specimens.
- Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment.
- Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation.
- Maintains and orders supplies.
- Executes protocols of non-routine experiments.
- Assists PI with determining the most suitable methodology.
- Performs basic design and modification of protocols.
- Calculates, transcribes and analyzes data.
- Prepares and presents reports.
- Organizes and summarizes acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques.
- Organizes and/or drafts material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts, or other documents for publication and/or presentation.
- Participates in the design of experiments or field work.
- Uses universal safety precautions and proper personal protective equipment to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials, including blood-borne pathogens.
- Completes annual biohazard/universal precaution safety training, as appropriate.
- Complies with biohazard safety standards through proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents and/or radiation sources in the workplace.
- Discusses progress of work regularly with supervisor.
- All other duties, as assigned.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and excellent organizational, interpersonal, oral and written communication skills. At least 1 year of full-time research experience post bachelor’s degree or equivalent significant research experience. Computational experience with R or similar environment preferred.
Application Process:
To apply, please send 1) your CV, 2) a 1-page statement of your scientific interests and career goals, and 3) letters or contact information for three references. A two-year commitment is expected.
BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
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