GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Seong and Wheeler Laboratories in the Center for Genomic Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) study human diseases that are caused by expanded microsatellite repeats, with a principal focus on Huntington's disease (HD). We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join our research group to support a number of ongoing projects involving the genetic analyses of HD mouse models. The successful candidate will have experience in handling mice as well as with mouse behavioral phenotyping, histology or molecular biology techniques. The ideal candidate will be highly driven, thrive in fast-paced, team-based environment, have strong inter-personal skills, and exhibit excellent organizational and computational skills.

Please note, the functions below are representative of major duties that are typically associated with these positions. Specific responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Similarly, not all duties that have been outlined will be assigned to each position.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. - pipetting, cell and tissue culture, etc.)

* Maintains laboratory notebook

* Understands and applies basic scientific techniques

* Conducts analysis of results and may begin interpretation of results

* Sets up and prepares routine experiments as directed

* Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment

* May perform independent literature searches

* Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation

* Maintains and orders supplies

A Research Technician II performs the duties of a Research Technician I (above) and may also:

* Execute protocols of non-routine experiments

* Assist the PI(s) with determining the most suitable methodology

* Perform basic design and modification of protocols

* Calculate, transcribe and analyze data

* Prepare and present reports

* Organize and summarize acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques.

* Organize and/or draft material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts and other documents for publication and/or presentation.

* Participate in the design of experiments or field work.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

* Proficiency in handling mice.

* Proficiency in mouse genetic research is a plus.

* Proficiency in molecular biology techniques including DNA extraction and PCR is a plus.

* Proficiency in histological techniques is a plus.

* Experience in mouse behavioral analysis is a plus.

* Ability to handle a variety of tasks amid shifting priorities.

* A high degree of initiative.

* Creative and highly motivated individual with strong organizational and management skills.

* Computer literacy

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

* Ability to work independently and as a team member to support various projects.

The Research Technician II should also possess:

* Analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical problems

* Ability to interpret acceptability of data results

* Working knowledge of data management programs

* Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies

EDUCATION:

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Genetics, Neuroscience or related discipline

EXPERIENCE:

New graduates with some lab experience (via course work, internships, etc.) will be considered for the Research Technician I position outlined above.

Those with a minimum of 1 year of directly related work experience will be considered for a Research Technician II position.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):

A Research Technician II may serve as a team leader to lab assistants and Research Technician I's.