Research Assistant 1 - Lab

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases (IID) focuses on the biological, immunological, epidemiological and ecological aspects of viral, bacterial and protozoan diseases of animals and humans, including the vectors that transmit infectious agents. Research in the department's laboratories is primarily focused on diseases of developing countries.

Insects are a key gateway for spreading disease because of their ability to ferry pathogens from one host to another. These vectors represent important biological touch points, especially in malaria, and we are pursuing innovative research programs to illuminate their roles and identify strategies for future disease control. In Africa — where the majority of malaria deaths occur — the primary vector of disease is the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. The malaria parasite is transmitted through the bites of female mosquitoes, whose high reproductive capacity fuels malaria transmission. Therefore, targeting these insects (and the parasites they carry) holds great promise as a strategy for future disease control.

The successful candidate will support the research of the Department and of the Catterccia Laboratory, focusing on parasite-vector interactions. The Research Assistant will study mosquito reproduction and its interaction with malaria parasite transmission, as well as help in the development and testing of new chemical interventions for parasite control in mosquitoes with the ultimate goal of developing innovative malaria control strategies.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Malaria parasite culturing, controlled mosquito infections and mosquito microdissection.
• Routine molecular biological work such as isolation of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qRT-PCR), protein analysis assays and immunofluorescence microscopy.
• Mosquito maintenance, if needed.
• Other basic laboratory duties as assigned.

Although full training will be provided, some experience with general molecular biology techniques, parasite in vitro culturing, microscopy and/or mosquito rearing is an advantage, as is general experience working with biosafety level 2+ pathogens. The successful candidate is required to interact and coordinate work with a large variety of other staff and researchers including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and senior scientists, as needed for each responsibility. Other basic laboratory duties may be required as needed. Experience with cell culture is required for this position.

The Research Assistant must be able to work part time in a facility with constant temperature of 80 F and relative humidity of 70-80%. Handling of human-derived samples such as blood, as well as malaria parasites, is required in this position.

PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of June 30, 2027 with the possibility for extension.

PLEASE NOTE: The finalist will be required to pass an occupational health screening.

PLEASE NOTE: Scheduling flexibility is needed on an occasional basis, such as extended shift hours on evenings, weekend and holiday closures as needed.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• 1+ years of relevant experience is required; a combination of education and experience may be considered

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology or similar field strongly preferred
• Experience in a life sciences molecular biology wet lab environment 
• Knowledge/education/interest in host-vector/host-parasite interactions, public/global health, tropical infectious diseases and epidemiology
• Experience in routine molecular biology methodologies
• Experience with parasite in vitro culturing or cell culture
• Experience with high throughput assays
• Experience with basic laboratory techniques including creating standard solutions, dilutions, use of micropipettes and other common laboratory apparatuses 
• Strong attention to detail
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Experience working  in a diverse group setting, both collaboratively but also independently
• Capacity to quickly adapt to the needs of a fast-paced research environment/team

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date: June 30, 2027
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal

Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country! 

-------------------- 

• The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions. 
• Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings. 
• This position has a 90 day orientation and review period. The O&R period will be waived for any internal Harvard employee transfers. 

-------------------- 

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines. 

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 052. 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.

Salary Grade: 052