Primary duties include assisting senior scientists in performing scientific research. Individuals will be trained in specific basic science laboratory techniques, with the goal to become semi-independent in laboratory technique performance. The work will initially entail generating DNA libraries for Illumina sequencing by a process called ligation-mediated PCR. The individual would be expected overtime to learn how to run the Illumina sequencer and analyze results bioinformatically using in-house generated scripts. There is also growth potential to work with HIV virus and perform applicable cell biology and infection experiments. Successful accomplishment of job tasks is likely to result in published co-authorships on laboratory papers.

To learn more about the Engelman lab, please click here. 

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

Work closely with senior scientific staff to learn specific basic science laboratory techniques, including:

• Ligation-mediated PCR.
• Quality control assessment by Tapestation, real-time PCR, and kappa PCR.
• Next generation sequencing on the Illumina sequencer.
• Bioinformatic analyses of Illumina sequences.
• Analyze and statistically parse experimental data. Interpret results and prepare figures for presentations and publications.
• Participate/present results to staff at laboratory group meetings.
• Maintain detailed notebook and electronic files of all work-related activities.
• Learn basic computer skills for instrument operation and for figure compilation and statistical analyses.
• Maintenance and propagation of tissue culture cell lines.
• Tissue culture cell transfection and downstream sample processing.
• Generation of HIV stocks and assessment of virus infection capacity.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of HIV and cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Infectious diseases and cancer know no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

• Bachelor's Degree required with a major in biology or chemistry preferred.
• Knowledge of information and techniques related to molecular biology and microbiology is preferred.
• Must have excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to work with a wide variety of faculty and staff.
• Ability to analyze information and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.
• Must have attention to detail and be thorough in completing work tasks.
• Ability to work within a team environment.