Research Technician - Tufts University

The Kaplan Lab focuses on biomaterials derived from biopolymer engineering and on tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and cellular agriculture. The lab utilizes fibrous proteins from nature (e.g., elastins, silks, collagens, resilins) and bioengineered variants, generated via genetic engineering methods, to study structure-function from both fundamental and applied views. The lab also specializes in the field of tissue engineering to establish and study 3D human tissues for disease, and towards cellular agriculture initiatives for food-related goals.

This is a grant funded position and is not eligible for severance pay.

The Kaplan Lab Research Tech will focus on research to bioengineer animal cells for new functions using genetic tools, particularly CRISPR. Genetic designs, implementation of these designs and cell characterization subsequent to the modifications are key aspects of the position, with the individual having the skills to efficiently conduct a range of studies. Key aspects of the studies will include genetic modifications related to cell production of specific proteins to regulate functional aspects of the cells themselves, or to generate proteins useful after downstream purification. Thus, the products will be proteins and/or cells with new capabilities. The individual would be working within a team focused on these types of projects, helping each other but also running or leading your own projects.

Responsibilities include:

• Perform troubleshooting of instruments, taking and recording corrective actions, maintenance of equipment in working order.
• Assist in the setup of new procedures, modification of existing procedures, update of procedure manuals
• Participate in lab duties maintaining shared lab space
• Cell culture - standard cell culture techniques, media, cell expansion, cell storage
• Molecular biotechnology - standard assays (qPCR), CRISPR genome engineering, cell engineering, creating new iPSC derived cell types and stable reporter lines, protein and immunohistochemistry characterization of cells and tissue samples
• Attends mandatory annual training sessions in fire safety, chemical hygiene, and laboratory safety, HIPAA compliance
• Performs other similar and related duties as required or directed i.e., assisting in order and stock levels, making lab stock solutions for assays and culture medium, autoclave trash, waste pick-up coordinator, protocol write-ups and updates of general lab activities
• Specific experimental assistance as needed

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills typically acquired by a BS degree in biomedical engineering, bioengineering or related field
• Wet lab, biological laboratory experience
• Ability to work accurately, effectively, within a team and independently under pressure and to meet deadlines
• Ability to manage work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; highly self-motivated
• Ability to multi-task and work on multiple projects simultaneously
• Demonstrated organizational skills and ability to pay close attention to detail
• Motivation to learn and grow in scientific expertise
• Ability to trouble-shoot technical issues
• Ability to plan and prioritize work while responding flexibly to rapidly changing priorities

Preferred Qualifications:

• BS degree in molecular biology, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, materials engineering or related field
• Research experience in an academic lab
• Ability to read scientific literature and adapt/design new protocols
• Accurate, detailed data and record keeping

Special Work Schedule Requirements:

• Some night and weekend commitments, including participation in the administrator-on-call rotation is required