Broad Institute

The Claussnitzer research group, within the Metabolism Program and Broad Diabetes Initiative, has an exciting opportunity for a Research Associate to join their functional genomics team. The Claussnitzer lab works to connect GWAS-associated genetic risk loci for cardiometabolic diseases and traits to function. This group is dedicated to identifying genetic variants, effector genes, and cellular functions that contribute to risk of type 2 diabetes and related metabolic disorders through high-throughput genomic studies. This individual will play an essential role in the team’s efforts to advance the translation of type 2 diabetes genetics into an understanding of underlying cellular disease mechanisms and identification of actionable therapeutic hypotheses.

We are seeking a self-motivated individual who will experimentally support a number of projects and participate in a wide variety of research activities. The successful candidate will utilize standard and cutting-edge technologies to systematically link genetic risk variants to their effector genes, and measure the impact on cellular metabolic function through targeted assays and high-throughput and high-content profiling methodologies, including CRISPR-based screening tools, single-cell molecular profiling, and high-content imaging technologies. They will be an integral part of a multi-disciplinary project team whose goals include identifying causal variants for metabolic traits and linking those variants to cellular functions. Experience with basic techniques of molecular biology, cell culture and/or biochemistry would be highly advantageous. Additional experience in epigenomic profiling and basic data analysis would be helpful for the role as well. Basic computer skills and previous laboratory experience are required.

The Claussnitzer lab is a fun, fast-paced, impact-driven, and collaborative environment, located at the Broad Institute and the Center for Genomic Medicine and Endocrine Division at MGH, and part of the greater Boston life-science community including MIT and Harvard. The workplace culture is diverse, dynamic, progressive, and supports a healthy work-life balance. To support this mission, we strive to support diversity, intellectual curiosity, flexibility, and integrity.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Design and perform bench level experiments involving cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemistry
• Document, compile, and assist with analyzing and interpreting experimental data
• Attend and participate in lab and project meetings, including preparing reports and presenting progress
• Interact and communicate with team members and collaborators
• Contribute toward publication of scholarly reports
• Consult colleagues or scientific literature, as needed, to develop professional expertise
• Comply with all safety, biohazard, and other institutional rules
• Assist with lab management duties
• Other tasks as required

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• A minimum of 5+ years of related experience with a BS degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, or a related life science field; or 3+ years with a Master’s degree in a related life science field
• Proficiency in molecular biology, genomics, and cellular biology (cell-based assays, primary and cell line culture)
• Ability to quickly learn and apply new tools
• Willingness to perform new tasks as required
• Strong analytical skills with a high degree of initiative
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Technical knowledge of and experience with experimental genomics and genome engineering methods is preferred
• Creative, dedicated, highly motivated individuals who can work well with other team members
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, lab notebook practices, and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask in a dynamic, multidisciplinary and fast-paced research environment
• Two-year minimum commitment required