Position Description

We currently have an opening for a Research Assistant I in the lab of Dr. Stephen Liberles at Harvard Medical School. The work of Dr. Liberles’ lab is focused on understanding internal and external sensory systems - from identifying sensory receptors to charting neural circuits that orchestrate behavioral and physiological responses. One area of the lab focuses on the vagus nerve - a major communication axis between the brain and body that helps monitor and control the physiological state of internal organs. In other work, we study how the nervous system orchestrates vital physiological processes such as digestion, metabolism, and reproduction. Through genetic and molecular approaches, lab members look to investigate how neural circuits detect and respond to stimuli like stretch of stomach and airways, changes in blood pressure, nutrients, and the changes in body condition that occur throughout life.

We are targeting curious, self-driven candidates who are passionate about basic scientific research and understanding how behaviors adapt to physiological state and need. The successful candidate will be using molecular, genetic, and physiological approaches to study neuroscience in mice, and this is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to stay 2-3 years with the goal of providing preparatory training for graduate school. As this role involves interaction with animals, there is the chance for occasional night or weekend work, on a as needed basis. We seek to foster an inclusive and collegial environment and expect the successful candidate to be a good lab citizen and team player.

Responsibilities will include:

• Work efficiently and cooperatively to assist Postdocs, Graduate Students, and other lab members with experiments.
• Perform experiments in sensory neuroscience using state-of-the-art approaches, such as optogenetics, neuronal mapping, imaging, behavioral analysis, mouse genetics, histochemistry, and measurements of autonomic physiology.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and read literature applicable to the research area.
• Help with lab organization, including accurate documentation and recording/maintenance of large data files.
• Assist with other support duties relating to lab management and operations as required.
• Assist, along with other lab members, in the maintenance of mouse breeding colony.

Basic Qualifications

College background and 1+ years of relevant experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related discipline, a passion for neuroscience, 1+ years of experience working in a research lab, and prior experience working with mice is strongly preferred.
• Self-motivated and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction.
• Ability to work both independently and as a team member while engaged in collaborative studies.
•  Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Exemplary organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instruction with an eagerness to learn, grow professionally, and be mentored.
• Actively seeks opportunities to increase skills and expertise.

Additional Information

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. 

Offer contingent upon successful completion of a pre-placement medical evaluation.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

Not ready to apply? Join our talent community to keep in touch and learn about future opportunities! (https://www.gem.com ?formID=16341e35-cbc6-4904-88a3-09b35763307e)
 

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals. Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Values

https://hms.harvard.edu/about-hms/campus-culture/mission-community-values-diversity-statement

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.