What are the responsibilities and job description for the Single-cell Genomics Research Technician position at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital?
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Research Technician to generate diverse cancer genomics data sets, with an emphasis on single-cell RNA-sequencing, CITE-seq, spatial transcriptomic, long-read sequencing, and exome/whole-genome sequencing data. The technician will assume responsibility for all aspects of data generation, including identifying appropriate clinical samples, ordering and maintaining reagents, preparing and sequencing DNA and RNA libraries (bulk and single-cell), and maintaining records of all reagents, samples, libraries, data, quotes, and work orders. Libraries will be prepared from patient samples, cell lines, and mice using diverse technologies, and additional procedures such as antibody staining and flow sorting will be required. This role requires the ability to learn new technologies and optimize protocols independently, as well as flexibility in scheduling and the ability to transport selected samples to the Broad Institute or other local core facilities. The scientist will work in a fast-paced and highly collaborative environment focused on brain tumor genomics and brain tumor immunology. The position will involve extensive interaction and communication with research faculty, clinicians, molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinical research coordinators. A two-year minimum commitment is required. Salary commensurate with experience.
Responsibilities
- Actively participate in experiment planning and execution
- Prepare DNA and RNA libraries (including bulk and single-cell) for sequencing using a variety of technologies, such as the Chromium (10X Genomics) and Evercode (Parse) platforms.
- Execute cell dissociation and preservation protocols
- Perform antibody staining and cell sorting
- Order and maintain reagents
- Track samples and data associated with each sample, including but not limited to sample ID number, date of acquisition, clinical diagnosis, library location, library quality metrics, sequencing status, sequencing quotes, and work orders
- Solve practical problems relating to equipment, reagents, or samples; suggest technical or procedural improvements in methodology and workflow
- Procure and track quotes and work orders from research cores at the Broad Institute, MGH, etc
- Maintain a laboratory notebook
Qualifications
- Requires a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
- Proficiency in basic tools of molecular biology, e.g. PCR (Required)
- Experience organizing samples and reagents, and maintaining meticulous records thereof
- Experience in bulk DNA and RNA library preparation
- Experience in single-cell RNA-sequencing library generation using 10X Genomics and/or Parse Evercode technologies
- Experience learning new techniques and optimizing new protocols
- Experience in antibody staining and flow sorting
- Experience in mammalian cell handling (culture, dissociation, etc)
- Proficiency in Excel, Google Docs, Dropbox, and other tools for data tracking
- Meticulous organizational skills
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as a team member