Research Assistant I – Rao Lab

The Rao Lab is seeking a Research Assistant to partner with scientists in the lab and perform experiments investigating the molecular and cellular basis of ENS function. This individual will gain practical experience in mouse genetics, tissue dissection, cell culture, molecular biology (qPCR), mouse behavioral assays, ex vivo and in vivo gut motility assays, allergen and inflammation mouse models, and quantitative approaches to studying ENS circuit function.

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is unique among other organs because it has its own intrinsic nervous system, called the enteric nervous system (ENS), that is large, complex, and mostly independent in its capability to regulate a variety of digestive and metabolic functions. The Rao lab uses mouse genetic models, imaging, and a variety of both in vivo and ex vivo assays to investigate how information about nutrients, mechanical stimuli, and microbes is detected and used by the ENS to regulate pancreas function, nutrient detection, GI motility, metabolism, epithelial functions, and immune responses. Our work is at the exciting interface between neuroscience and gut biology.

Project Overview: Sensory neurons within the gut, called intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs), respond to chemical and mechanical cues to affect gut motility and immune responses. We have found specific neuropeptides expressed by IPANs may modulate metabolism, pancreas functions, as well as inflammatory responses to gut bacterial infections and allergens. The goal of this project is to define specifically how these and extrinsic sensory neurons modulate neurogenic inflammatory processes, satiety and weight, and pancreatic function in the gut.

This Research Assistant will be responsible for:

• According to prescribed protocols and assigned schedules, administering a variety of brief neuropsychological tests and questionnaires, scoring or recording responses and checking results for completeness and accuracy
• Assisting in troubleshooting procedures if administration of tests does not go as expected
• Performing the following techniques typically required for the study:
  • Maintaining records of results and methodologies in a log of work performed
  • Maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that data are stored according to protocol
  • Sterilizing and cleaning glassware, and preparing media and other materials using appropriate procedures
  • Keeping an inventory of supplies, alerting supervisor to needed supplies
  • Processing orders for supplies and/or animals
  • Attending courses in safety procedures for handling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous, flammable, corrosive, and toxic materials
  • Carrying out all laboratory activities in compliance with applicable regulations and protocols
• Conducting literature searches and reviews, compiling information for journals

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s Degree is required
• Must be highly self-motivated, organized, naturally curious, and enthusiastic about hands on science
• Must be adept at working both independently and collaboratively to take on new challenges
• Experience with molecular biology and/or working with mice is preferred, but not required
• A two year commitment is strongly preferred

Boston Children’s Hospital offers competitive compensation and unmatched benefits including flexible schedules, affordable health, vision and dental insurance, child care and student loan subsidies, generous levels of time off, 403(b) Retirement Savings plan, Pension, Tuition and certain License and Certification Reimbursement, cell phone plan discounts and discounted rates on T-passes. Experience the benefits of passion and teamwork.