Research Assistant I

Job Summary

The Whited Lab focuses on limb regeneration in axolotl salamanders. The Lab is directed towards 1) manipulating gene expression during limb regeneration, and 2) exploring signaling events following wound healing that initiate the regenerative process.

Auto req ID

61645BR

Job Code

403108 Research Assistant I Lab

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Business Title

Research Assistant I

Sub-Unit

Sciences

Salary Grade

052

Time Status

Full-time

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Basic Qualifications

College background and/or related experience in some aspect of biological sciences is required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Candidate should have profound attention to detail and pride in work. Candidate needs demonstrable prior experience caring for aquatic animals. This experience could be in a research or museum-type setting; it might also be in a pet store or in-home aquatics. Extra consideration will be given to candidates with amphibian experience.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, ability to work independently or on a team and routinely assess and identify potential risks to the facility. High level of problem solving and proactive planning are beneficial traits for this position. Understanding of basic chemistry and infectious diseases is also required.

Additional Information

All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources

This is a one year term position

Department

Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology

Pre-Employment Screening

Identity

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 9-5
Some holiday and weekend work may be required.

Job Function

Research

Position Description

Reporting to Principal Investigator, Prof. Jessica Whited, the Aquatics RA will:

- Be responsible for the daily operations of the axolotl research colony, including implementation of approved animal husbandry protocols, indirect supervision of any staff assigned to routine animal care, optimization of husbandry schedules and protocols, supply ordering, and ensuring compliance in the facility;

- Perform husbandry tasks in the aquatics facility on a daily basis;

- Develop and update animal inventory and identification systems, and work with researchers on animal research supply needs;

- Make recommendations to PI about resource and operational issues;

- Perform routine lab ordering support and serve as the lab's safety officer.

School/Unit

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

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.

Working Conditions

Harvard University continues to place the highest priority on the health, safety and wellbeing of its faculty, staff, and students, as well as the wider community. Please note that all new employees will be required to provide confirmation of primary series COVID-19 vaccination upon hire, as detailed on our COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Webpage . Harvard University Health Services employees and other health care individuals are also required to be up to date on vaccination as described by the CDC. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. Additional information regarding this requirement, exemptions, verification of vaccination status, and other related policies and resources may be found on the University’s COVID-19 Information Website .

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Work Format

On-Site