Research Assistant I

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Medical School?

Harvard Medical School's mission is to nurture a diverse, inclusive community dedicated to alleviating suffering and improving health and well-being for all through excellence in teaching and learning, discovery and scholarship, and service and leadership.

You’ll be at the heart of biomedical discovery, education, and innovation, working alongside world-renowned faculty and a community dedicated to improving human health. This is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to shape the future of medicine.

About the Department of Genetics:

The Sinclair Lab is at the forefront of research on genes and small molecules that delay or reverse aging. Our work allows for the safe manipulation of tissue age to improve symptoms of aging and age-associated diseases. This technology has potential applications in combating cancer, blindness, diabetes, and neurodegeneration.

We are seeking a dedicated, highly organized Laboratory Technician to help advance our research on aging and associated disorders as well as methods to mitigate them. This role involves characterizing the aging dynamics of cells and animals in both healthy and diseased states and assisting in the development of age-reversal interventions as potential therapeutics. The successful candidate will employ both in vitro and in vivo (mouse model) experimental approaches under the guidance of senior researchers and must be enthusiastic about learning new techniques across a wide range of experimental settings.

A major component of this position will be support of our mouse research program. This includes routine colony management (breeding, weaning, and basic health monitoring), experimental procedures such as oral gavage and injections, blood and tissue collection (e.g., cheek bleeds, perfusions, dissections), and participation in physiological (frailty, metabolic, behavioral, etc.) assessments. Prior experience with all of these techniques is not required; however, comfort working with mice, a strong interest in animal-based research, and a commitment to following detailed protocols with technical precision are essential.

In addition to animal work, the technician will be trained in and expected to execute tissue and molecular analyses such as immunohistochemistry (IHC), microscopy, tissue sectioning, and standard bench techniques (e.g., RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, Western blotting, and basic bioinformatics/data processing). Prior experience with these skills is useful but not required. The ideal candidate will be meticulous and reliable, with excellent organizational skills, careful record-keeping, and strong communication with the PI and other lab members.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain mouse colonies, including breeding, weaning, health monitoring, and experimental scheduling.
• Perform experimental procedures in mice (e.g., handling, gavage, injections, blood and tissue collection, behavioral testing) under supervision and in accordance with approved protocols.
• Tissue processing and staining (e.g., IHC).
• Perform standard experimental tests and procedures (e.g., basic molecular biology and biochemistry assays) with high technical precision.
• Accurately record, organize, and document experimental procedures, observations, and results using established laboratory techniques and data management systems.
• Communicate progress, issues, and results clearly to supervising researchers.
• Help maintain an orderly, well-organized laboratory environment and adhere to all safety and animal welfare regulations
• Conduct related job duties as required.

Basic Qualifications:

• College background or equivalent work experience, in molecular/cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• At least one year of work experience in a research laboratory with relevant skills and techniques, (relevant course work may count towards experience).

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Experience handling rodents strongly preferred.
• College degree (BS/BA) preferred. 
• Strong organizational skills, including careful labeling, sample tracking, and documentation.
• High attention to detail and technical accuracy; ability to follow written and verbal protocols precisely.
• Demonstrated willingness and ability to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving experimental needs.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

• Term: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal, Pre-Placement Medical Evaluation 
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 052. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.