Research Associate (Quantitative Cell Biology, Drug Discovery) - Tufts University

The faculty in Molecular Biology-Microbiology (MBM) are united by a common interest in the biology of microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) and the effects of microbes on human and animal hosts. The microbial pathogens program studies microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, with emphasis on rigorous analysis of these pathogens and the immune responses that restrict them. Program investigators direct detailed studies of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and eukaryotic parasites. Research topics include structural analysis of virus entry, viral evolution, viral oncogenes, intracellular bacterial pathogens, microorganisms that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, intracellular signaling, pathogen adhesion, genetic determinants involved in susceptibility to infection, vaccine development, and identification of novel antimicrobial agents.  

Under supervision of the principal investigator, other lab members, and senior scientists in neighboring labs who are intimately familiar with the techniques required, the Research Assistant may conduct a variety of experiments using a variety of skills, which may include culturing bacterial and mammalian cells, performing fixed-cell and live-cell microscopy, making mesoscale and high-throughput measurements, and using microfluidic devices, quantitative image analysis, MATLAB and python programming, and machine learning.  In these capacities, the Research Assistant will also record test results and analyze data using statistics. Our data-driven modeling requires use and development of custom code. Therefore, the strongest candidates will have computer programming and quantitative analysis skills.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct and design experiments
  • follow and design appropriate protocols/procedures to achieve results and test specific hypotheses.
  • perform techniques such as cell culturing, preparing samples for live-cell microscopy, mesoscale analysis, flow cytometry, molecular biology procedures, and testing drug regimens.
• Record results and assist with data analysis: 
  
  • keep accurate records of experiments and results
  • perform data interpretation/summarization including writing custom code and models
  • communicate findings to PI
  • interact scientifically with labmates
• Help manage the laboratory (as all lab members do), including (but not limited to) assisting and training other lab members, ordering supplies and noting inventory, lab organization, and coordinate equipment repair

Basic Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering and 3-5 years of related laboratory experience OR Master’s degree and up to one year laboratory experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Consistent attention to detail and excellent organizational and communication skills are critical. Knowledge of MS Office products, statistical/quantitative analysis, and computation is necessary.

This description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.