Broad Institute

Research Associate I - Stanley Center Neurobiology - Sheng Lab

The Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard is looking for a Research Associate to join the laboratory of Morgan Sheng, Co-Director of the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research. The Stanley Center is a highly collaborative group of  multidisciplinary scientists with expertise spanning human genetics, cell and molecular biology, bioinformatics, circuit neuroscience, technology development and therapeutics discovery. The mission of the Stanley Center is to improve the lives of patients suffering from serious mental illnesses, through basic and translational research. Based on groundbreaking insights into the genetic basis of psychiatric diseases, the Stanley Center aims to uncover disease mechanisms and discover novel therapeutics. The Broad Institute provides a vibrant research environment with close links to MIT, Harvard and the Harvard-affiliated hospitals across Boston.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary group performing cutting-edge research on the molecular, cellular and neurobiological mechanisms of psychiatric disorders, especially in relation to risk genes for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The candidate will work with senior researchers to conduct studies on animal model systems using molecular biology, high throughput techniques and behavioral assays. 

Characteristic Duties

• Conduct experiments using molecular, biochemical, behavioral and histological techniques.

• Mouse husbandry (breeding, weaning, ear punch). 

• Rodent tissue harvesting (Perfusions, microdissections, sectioning, sample preparation for RNA and protein measurement). 

• Document meticulously experimental procedures and outcomes; carefully analyze data and interpret experimental outcomes; discuss results with the supervisor in a timely manner.

• Troubleshoot experiments by consulting the supervisor, other scientific staff, literature and vendors as needed. 

• Present and participate in internal and external team meetings.

• Collaborate with other members of the team with regard to the group's collective success.

Minimum qualifications

• BS or MS in neuroscience, biology or related field. 

• 0-2 years experience (BS) or 0-1 year experience (MS) of relevant research/laboratory experience. 

• Fluency with one or more domains: 

• Animal handling and in vivo studies (prior experience handling mice is strongly preferred)

• Molecular / cellular biology

• Microscopy/imaging

• Cell culture 

• Behavioral assays

• Ability to work independently and on multidisciplinary project teams. 

• Exceptional organization and time management skills; attention to detail; ability to multi-task. 

• Curiosity to learn new things and a passion for neurobiology and/or translational research. 

• Willingness to develop and shift plans in service of a rapidly changing environment.

• Strong communication skills.