Research Assistant I - Benson Lab

When you join the growing BILH team, you're not just taking a job, you’re making a difference in people’s lives.

Job Summary: Dr. Benson’s laboratory’s interests are focused on applying emerging metabolomics, proteomics, and genomics technologies to detect signatures of small molecules in blood that may be used to predict an individual’s future risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The ultimate goal of this research is to identify novel biomarkers and pharmacological targets that may improve preventive cardiovascular disease therapy. His research incorporates basic molecular and cell biology, chemistry and bioinformatics, all with a foundation in clinical medicine.
The successful candidate will support investigators in molecular and cellular biology, maintenance of cell cultures, proteomic assays, mouse colony and assisting with experiments in rodents.
This position is ideal for someone interested in pursuing medical school or graduate studies in biology, genetics or translational research.

Job Description:

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Performs routine and non-routine laboratory tests which may include DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, northern blotting; synthesizes and interprets results.
2. May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, flow cytometer, etc.
3. Using analytical abilities and sound judgment, makes decisions regarding the reliability and accuracy of results, repeating procedures when necessary.
4. May assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinating schedules of tests and procedures
5. May prepare written and/or verbal reports on status of research and the technical procedures used, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions.

Required Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or related scientific field required.
2. 0-1 years related work experience required.
3. Experience with computer systems required, including web based applications and some Microsoft Office applications which may include Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint or Access.

Competencies:

1. Decision Making: Ability to make decisions that are based on specific instructions, standard practices and established procedures which generally require little or no supervision.
2. Problem Solving: Ability to address problems that are routine, somewhat repetitive and generally solved by following clear directions and procedures and by identifying opportunities for process improvements.
3. Independence of Action: Ability to follow general instructions and procedures as provided. Work is monitored by supervisor/manager.
4. Written Communications: Ability to read, and write in English in order to understand basic safety instructions and take direction from supervisors; communicate effectively with patients, families and other medical center staff; and respond to basic questions.
5. Oral Communications: Ability to understand spoken English in order to follow basic safety instructions and take direction from supervisors; communicate effectively in basic English with patients, families and medical center staff in response to routine questions.
6. Knowledge: Ability to demonstrate basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices and procedures with the ability to use them in routine situations. Specialized knowledge not required.
7. Team Work: Ability to interact respectfully with other employees, professional staff and/or external contacts to offer ideas, identify issues, obtain information or deliver services.
8. Customer Service: Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude and respond to requests in a timely and respectful manner.

Physical Nature of the Job:
Light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Some elements of the job are sedentary, but the employee will be required to stand for periods of time or move through out the hospital campus

Pay Range:

$19.23 - $26.44

The pay range listed for this position is the base hourly wage range the organization reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for this position at this time. Actual compensation is determined based on several factors, that may include seniority, education, training, relevant experience, relevant certifications, geography of work location, job responsibilities, or other applicable factors permissible by law.  Compensation may exceed the base hourly rate depending on shift differentials, call pay, premium pay, overtime pay, and other additional pay practices, as applicable to the position and in accordance with the law.

As a health care organization, we have a responsibility to do everything in our power to care for and protect our patients, our colleagues and our communities. Beth Israel Lahey Health requires that all staff be vaccinated against influenza (flu) as a condition of employment.More than 35,000 people working together. Nurses, doctors, technicians, therapists, researchers, teachers and more, making a difference in patients' lives. Your skill and compassion can make us even stronger.Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled