Research Assistant - Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health - Tufts University

The Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health (IDGH) combines four important areas of expertise within Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. These are public/population health, international medicine, wildlife and conservation medicine, and infectious disease research. The alignment of these areas promotes cross-disciplinary strengths that are important in achieving the department's goal of improving human, animal and ecosystem health locally, nationally and globally. Much of the research in the department aims to advance understanding of the biology and host interaction of pathogens, particularly those causing enteric disease, and to use this information to develop immunotherapy and vaccines against the pathogens.

The position involves working in a research laboratory, animal model laboratory, in the specialized facility, and at the computer recording, processing, and analyzing data. The candidate will be expected to work in collaboration with the senior investigator and laboratory staff to design and execute experiments involving mostly in vivo and in vitro investigations on infectious agents including Treponema pallidum. The work will require working in BSL2 and possibly BSL3 facility. The expectation is that the candidate will have communication skills, be highly self-motivated, and will be encouraged to be resourceful and a team player. The position requires experience with infectious agents, animal model (such as mouse, rabbit) cell culture, molecular biology (PCR and quantitative PCR) and immunoassays (such as ELISA). This individual may have other responsibilities in the laboratory such as assisting with training of graduate students or entry level staff, writing papers, etc.

The essential functions as a Research Assistant in the IDGH will be:

• Coordinate assigned project tasks involving hands-on skills of working in vitro and in vivo with infectious agents; standard molecular procedures such as DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis; immunoassays such as ELISA; record-keeping; data analysis; able to work with multiple animal models, including rabbits and mice.
• Monitor disease progression and manifestation (sample collection and analysis), performing procedures, and examining and analyzing tissues histologically, including the application of immunohistochemistry.
• General lab maintenance, such as restocking lab supplies, ordering supplies; organization and maintenance, including glassware cleaning, disposal of hazardous and biohazardous waste, autoclaving; minor equipment maintenance; preparing solutions.
• Assist with data analysis, grant and manuscript writing, literature searches, help to train technicians and graduate students, perform scholarly activities, and attend scientific meetings and seminars.
• Other duties as directed by the PI.

The position may involve performing scientific work on several projects under the leadership of the senior investigators as requested.

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and experience as typically acquired through a Bachelor’s degree in science and 3-5 years of related laboratory experience OR Master’s degree and up to one year laboratory experience.
• Required computer/technical skills: Microsoft Office, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel
• Valid US driver’s license. 

Additional Preferred Experience, Education, etc.

• Master’s degree in science
• Knowledge of and experience with advanced laboratory techniques and procedures, data interpretation and statistical analysis
• Immunology to molecular genetics and cell biology relating to infectious agents laboratory skills
• Experience working with animal models