Research Associate II – Stem Cell Models – Steven’s Lab – Broad Institute – Cambridge, MA

The Stevens lab is seeking a dynamic and motivated tissue culture specialist to join us in the neurobiology division of the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at Broad, to collaboratively execute and support research in neuroimmunology, and the impacts of genetic variation on neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. This position specifically will entail work with human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hESC, iPSC), their differentiation into diverse brain cell types, and downstream QC and functional assays.

The Stevens lab applies cutting-edge methods to stem cell-derived cultures, brain tissues, and animal models to understand how interactions between the brain’s immune cells, glia, and neurons influence the development and dysfunction of synapses and circuits. We use these models to investigate how genetic variants and environmental risk factors disrupt brain development and function in patients with serious mental illness or neurodegenerative disease, and identify potential therapeutic strategies. Our lab collaborates closely across the neurobiology, genetics, and therapeutics groups at the Stanley Center, as well as with many labs across Boston, around the U.S., and abroad. A successful candidate in this role will contribute to multiple projects supporting the overall goals of the Stanley Center to improve mental health through groundbreaking basic and translational research.

Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in cell biology or a related field and experience with primary cell or tissue culture, ideally with prior exposure to stem cell (ESC/iPSC) techniques and protocols. Other relevant knowledge and skills include flow cytometry/FACS, DNA/RNA/protein purification, Western blotting and ELISA. Excellent sterile technique, attention to detail, and careful note-keeping habits are essential skills in this role. In addition to training in neuroscience-relevant stem cell differentiation and experimentation, the Stevens lab and the Broad Institute provide an outstanding environment for career development through formal training programs and exposure to diverse, cutting-edge science and scientists.

What you will do

• Prepare and maintain human and mouse cell cultures, including embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells (hES, iPSC).
  

• Research, execute, troubleshoot, and optimize protocols for differentiation of stem cells into diverse brain cell types (microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and neurons).
  

• Use flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, WB/ELISA, and other methods to perform QC and functional assays on stem cells and their derivatives.
  

• Work with team members to manage reagent inventories.
  

• Consult the literature, supervisor, and other scientific staff as needed to troubleshoot experiments.
  

• Research, learn, and develop new methods and technologies that might be relevant to the project.
  

• Attend and present at team meetings and contribute to lab discussions.
  

• Maintain detailed experimental records, documentation, and written protocols.
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in molecular or cell biology or a related field.
  

• Experience in tissue culture, ideally including stem cell maintenance and/or differentiation.
  

• Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
  

• Team player with a high level of initiative and motivation; ability to work both independently and with a team.
  

• Ability to think creatively to solve problems, and to know when to ask for help.
  

• Curiosity to learn new things and a passion to make a difference in the lives of patients by advancing the science of psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases.
  

#LI-POST

All Broad employees, regardless of work location, must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by Tuesday, October 12, 2021. Requests for exemption for medical or sincerely held religious beliefs will be considered.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.