Research Assistant I- The Burns Lab Department Of Cardiology

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, affecting a broad spectrum of ages from babies born with congenital heart defects to adults that suffer a heart attack and/or develop heart failure over time. Our laboratory primarily uses the zebrafish model system to understand how the heart develops during embryogenesis and how it efficiently regenerates following insult in adulthood. In addition, we use mice and human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes to translate our findings from zebrafish into mammals. We regularly perform molecular biology, next-generation sequencing, genome editing via CRISPR/Cas9, and advanced imaging. This is an ideal position for a college graduate interested in gaining further research experience before graduation or medical school.

For more information about our research program, please visit our website: https://www.burnslabbch.com/
This Research Assistant I will be responsible for:

• Microscopy techniques: Perform confocal microscopy, utilize dissecting scopes, and mount zebrafish in agarose for optimal imaging.
• Molecular and Cellular Techniques: Conduct experiments related to gene expression analysis (PCR, RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, gel electrophoresis), protein assays, immunohistochemistry, and perform microinjections to generate CRISPR mutants.
• Zebrafish Husbandry: Responsible for maintaining and breeding zebrafish lines.

• According to prescribed protocols and assigned schedules, performs a variety of routine laboratory experiments and procedures, utilizing standard laboratory equipment, recording and checking results for completeness and accuracy.
• Assists in troubleshooting procedures if experimental results are unexpected or quality of specimens is poor.
• Performs the following techniques typically required for the laboratory/study:
  • Maintains records of results and methodologies in a log of work performed.
  • Maintains equipment, lab area, and supplies in a neat professional manner.
  • Sterilize and clean glassware, and prepare media and other materials using appropriate procedures.
  • Inventories supplies, alerts supervisor to needed supplies, or mixes standard reagents.
  • Processes order for supplies and/or animals.
  • Attends courses in safety procedures for handling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous, flammable, corrosive, and toxic materials.
• Carries out all laboratory activities in compliance with applicable regulations and protocols.
• Conducts literature searches and reviews, compiling information for journals and suggesting uses for new techniques to the P.I.
• Attends courses, lectures, and conferences to further own knowledge of research and laboratory techniques, consulting with other researchers and technicians to exchange information.
• Contributes to the team within and between departments and organizations.

In order to qualify, you must have:

• A bachelor's degree in STEM or Psychology.
• Preferred prior undergraduate research experience.
• Analytical skills to resolve problems that require the use of basic scientific, mathematical, or technical principles.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• A preferred two-year time commitment.

Boston Children's Hospital offers competitive compensation and unmatched benefits including flexible schedules, affordable health, vision and dental insurance, child care and student loan subsidies, generous levels of time off, 403(b) Retirement Savings plan, Pension, Tuition and certain License and Certification Reimbursement, cell phone plan discounts and discounted rates on T-passes.