Broad Institute

The Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard is seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and experienced Research Scientist I to join the dynamic Methods Development Lab (MDL).

The core mission of this role is the conception, development, validation, and scaled application of methods for ultra high-throughput single-cell multiomic sequencing technologies. The Research Scientist I will join a fast-paced, collaborative, and creative development team within the MDL, working to catalyze a transformational shift in single-cell sequencing and functional genomics capabilities.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the end-to-end design and meticulous execution of novel multiomic methods development across various technology platforms. We are seeking a strategically minded individual to drive scientific innovation as a member of a joint experimental and computational scientist team, who prioritizes shared success and team-based problem solving. The role requires a candidate who can contribute significantly to methods innovation, execute complex and detailed experimentation, manage project timelines, and clearly communicate cutting-edge results to contribute substantively to high-impact publications.


Responsibilities

·      Design, implement, and rigorously optimize next-generation single-cell multiomic methods.

·      Establish and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for novel and established high-throughput sequencing assays to ensure reproducibility and scalability.

·      Troubleshoot complex molecular biology and sequencing workflows at every step, from sample preparation to library construction.

·      Execute complex and detailed experimentation on a daily basis, utilizing advanced molecular biology techniques.

·      Culture primary and established cell lines under BSL-2 conditions for methods validation and application studies.

·      Work closely with computational biologists to co-develop analytic methods for novel technologies, and interpret large-scale single-cell datasets to strategically inform experimental design iterations.

·      Collaborate seamlessly with the development team and external Broad Labs to successfully transition developed methods for use in large-scale biological applications.

·      Critically evaluate and present results, methodology, and insights clearly at weekly group and inter-departmental meetings.

·      Contribute substantively to the writing and preparation of high-impact manuscripts, grant proposals, and community resources.

·      Maintain deep and current knowledge of the single-cell and functional genomics fields, proactively identifying and evaluating new -omic technologies and tools for potential utility and fit within the Broad's capabilities.

·      Actively participate in the preparation of funding applications (federal, philanthropic, institutional, or industrial).

·      Seek intellectual property protection for inventions that are conceived of or developed while a member of the MDL.

Required Qualifications

·      Ph.D. degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Bioengineering, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant, post-graduate work experience in an academic or industrial lab setting.

·      Extensive, hands-on molecular biology expertise is mandatory, including proficiency in the execution of single-cell sequencing pipelines from sample collection/preparation through library construction and sequencing coordination.

·      Direct experience with commercial and/or custom single-cell platforms is required. Experience with 10X Genomics, PIPseq is strongly preferred.

·      Proven expertise in single-cell RNA-seq and related sequencing modalities, with a strong, demonstrable emphasis on methods development, optimization, and multiomic approaches (CITE-seq, Perturb-seq).

·      Expertise in BSL2 cell culture, including the handling and processing of primary human/mouse cells and induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs).

·      Direct experience in the design, execution, and data interpretation of single-cell functional genomic perturbation screens (e.g., Perturb-seq, CRISPR-based screens) is highly preferred.

·      Background in analyzing and interpreting complex sequencing data, including familiarity with relevant programming/scripting languages (R or Python) is preferred.

·      Must be forward-thinking and highly innovative, with a nimble scientific/technical mind, able to rapidly develop and execute on creative solutions to technical roadblocks.

·      Strong ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Proven experience working effectively across experimental and computational research groups in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.

·      Excellent written and verbal communication skills, especially the ability to clearly and concisely describe complex experimental methods and interpret results to diverse audiences (both scientific and non-scientific).

·      A publication history in peer-reviewed journals, especially those focused on novel sequencing methodologies, is strongly preferred.

·      Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment.

Must be able to work onsite in Cambridge, MA, five days per week.