Research Assistant II- The Kalish Lab

The Kalish lab is a developmental neurobiology research group focused on how early life exposures, including during pregnancy, impact lifelong brain health and subsequent risk of neuropsychiatric disease. Our lab leverages advanced molecular and genomic approaches, including spatial transcriptomics, single cell sequencing, and human cell culture, to define molecular mechanisms underlying fetal and neonatal brain injury and neurodevelopmental disorders. We are seeking an experienced research assistant to perform human induced pluripotent stem cell culture, as well as neural progenitor and human microglia cell culture. The successful candidate will also perform immunocytochemistry and preparation of next generation sequencing libraries. This is an ideal position for a candidate prior to graduate school, or can be a position for long-term scientific and career growth. Human cell culture experience is required.
This Research Assistant will be responsible for:

• Maintain human stem cell cultures and perform differentiation to neural progenitor cells and microglia.
• Performs routine and highly specialized or unique laboratory experiments for specific research projects, using sophisticated and intricate research equipment and techniques. Performs and devises specialized experiments and research procedures, troubleshooting problems with own and other researchers’ results.
• Provides input to the overall research design to suggest techniques, maximize samples or refine data by the use of specialized techniques.
• Evaluates research data and initiates alternative approaches to improve quality of the results.
• Calculates, graphs and compiles data obtained, maintaining records and logs of work performed; perform statistical analyses.
• Undertakes quality assurance of research techniques.
• Calibrates, troubleshoots and performs repair of maintenance equipment.
• Evaluates and recommends new equipment and supplies needed for specialized procedures.
• Assists other lab personnel with the use of specialized equipment and techniques within the lab.
• Trains and provides guidance to technicians, residents and researchers in specialized procedures, use of equipment and theoretical bases of unique tests.
• Monitors the sterilization of glassware, media and reagent making and other laboratory processes.
• Prepares articles and papers on specialized techniques.
• Stays abreast in safety procedures, storage and disposal of bio hazardous, infectious, corrosive, radioactive and toxic substance, regulations in the lab to adhere to new Hospital and federal mandates.

In order to qualify, you must have:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in STEM.
• 1 year of relevant expereince is required, 2 years is preferred.
• Human cell culture experience, iPS and/or organoid based culture experience is required.
• Experience with human neural progenitor cells is preferred.
• Analytical skills to resolve complex problems requiring the use of scientific, mathematical, or technical principles and in depth, experienced based knowledge.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing including assigning and distributing work, coaching, training and enforcing policies.
• Strong attention to detail and independent problem-solving is a must.

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.