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The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

We are seeking an energetic and organized Administrative Coordinator to support Dr. Vamsi Mootha’s lab which is co-located at Massachusetts General Hospital and The Broad Institute. The Mootha lab focuses on mitochondria – often called the “powerhouse of the cell” -- by combining modern tools of genomics and computation with classical biochemical physiology. Their long-term mission is to use their basic science discoveries to improve the diagnosis and treatment of a range of human conditions, from rare inborn errors of metabolism to neurodegeneration to cancer and aging.  More information about the lab can be found on their website .  

This position will be based at Massachusetts General Hospital. We are targeting someone who would enjoy working both independently and as part of a team. You will serve as an integral part of the lab and will be responsible for supporting Dr. Mootha and the lab with a wide variety of tasks and project activities.

The successful candidate is seeking a long-term, stable career experience and is passionate about contributing to the lab’s mission. This role is a pivotal part of a large, exciting, friendly, and fast-paced lab composed of a fun and diverse mix of college students, graduate students, postdoctoral associates, physician-scientists, and research staff.

The lab has flexibility to allow for occasional remote work if desired after an initial acclimation period.

What we provide:

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• Access to Udemy on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars taught by members of the HHMI learning and organization development team.

• Being part of the vibrant scientific and medical communities at Massachusetts General Hospital and Broad Institute.

• Opportunity to be a core part of a highly collegial, collaborative, dynamic team doing mission-driven fundamental research.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth.

• Opportunity to play a part in shaping and strengthening the culture of the lab.

What you’ll do:

• Manage all aspects of Dr. Mootha’s calendar.

• Manage the scheduling of all of Dr. Mootha’s meetings with his students, fellows, staff which take place 1:1 as well as in group settings.

• Coordinate travel (transportation, hotel rooms, car rental, etc.)

• Process reimbursements from travel and other expenditures.

• Organize lab group meetings, events, and social outings.

• Maintain and update Dr. Mootha’s curriculum vitae.

• Maintain and update the lab’s website.

• Perform receptionist duties (answering the phone, taking messages, greeting visitors, handling mail, etc.) as required.

• Assist with onboarding and offboarding of lab team members in collaboration with MGH, the Broad, and HHMI operational partners as required.

• Assist with processing of letters of recommendation.

• Serve as a liaison between Dr. Mootha and other institutional research offices (e.g., finance office, grants office, research compliance office, patent office, etc).

What you bring:

• An enthusiasm for being a part of the Mootha lab and supporting its biomedical research mission.

• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills with strong attention to detail.

• Excellent computer skills and digital literacy, including demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google applications, two-factor authentication, etc.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to use good judgment in working independently, showing initiative, managing deadlines, responding to inquiries, and maintaining confidentiality.

• Ability to work collaboratively and positively with a wide variety of people at all levels and from all backgrounds.

• Previous experience as an administrative assistant is not required.

• An associate’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. A bachelor’s degree would be a plus, but it is not required.

Please include a detailed cover letter outlining why you are excited about this opportunity as part of your application.

Compensation Range:

Administrative Assistant I – $44,550 (minimum) - $55,600 (midpoint) - $72,380 (maximum)

Administrative Assistant II – $53,570 (minimum) - $67,000 (midpoint) - $87,010 (maximum)

Pay Type: Annual (Administrative Assistant II), Hourly (Administrative Assistant I)

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer