Research Technologist – Surgical Oncology Massachusetts General Hospital(MGH) Massachusetts General Hospital(MGH) 1,113 reviews

The Research Lab Technologist performs work to support the laboratory’s research endeavors and assist the Principal Investigator and others in a research laboratory. Performs or assists in experiments independently for research projects under minimum supervision. This includes collection of and accurate recording of procedures and results, maintenance of databases used in the lab, ordering necessary reagents to conduct experiments, and participation in joint upkeep of the lab. Provides post-operative care, transporting and monitoring of large animals; performs and documents health checks. Collaborates with veterinary and CCM staff. Ensures appropriate level of supplies and equipment is operational. Complies with IACUC and study protocols.

Carries out a wide range of moderate to complex lab techniques such as, but not limited to, chromatography, electrophoreses, small animal surgery, histology, histochemistry, and cell culture work. Independently modifies techniques as necessary to meet research and/or experimental needs.

Collects and records study data; maintains a lab notebook. Synthesizes and interprets information obtained from graphs, charts, laboratory experiments, statistical summaries and other data collection methods. Interprets results and use information to develop new investigative techniques to further the research. Synthesis may involve use of computer programs as well as data entry into databases.

Prepares verbal and written reports on the status of research, determination of technical procedures and the sequence of operations; statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions are included. Collaborates with supervisor in writing and editing material for publication and may appear as principal or secondary author on publications.

Participates in the design and modification of experiments; development may occur in techniques, experimental protocols and new procedures. Executes protocols of non-routine experiments and assists PI with determining the most suitable methodology.

Notifies and seeks assistance from the PI or Lab Director regarding any questions, unusual experimental conditions or results.

Prepares and presents reports for lab meetings.

Performs independent literature searches.

Operates moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, electron microscope, scintillation center, ultra-centrifuges and other scientific equipment related to research activity. Troubleshoots and may perform routine maintenance of lab equipment to include cleaning and replacing of parts. Report equipment malfunctions and needs to management. Refer and coordinate maintenance with vendor as needed.

Maintains and orders supplies and specimens.

Provides post-operative recovery, monitoring and care to large animals according to protocol and IACUC standards. Administers medication(s) as per schedule. Completes health checks and documents the condition of animals; notifies the PI, veterinarian and lab director in a timely manner regarding changes in condition or attention needed.

Transports animals in a safe and secure manner for both animal and human.

Ensures animals are appropriately housed to facilitate recovery and care. Collaborates with staff from CCM on husbandry needs and issues.

Operates and ensures working order of equipment used in the monitoring, transporting and care of large animals.

Monitors use of surgical, anesthesia and other animal supplies, taking inventory as scheduled and ordering to meet par levels.

Serves as point of contact for investigators regarding surgical schedule, facilities and services. May participate in the scheduling of rooms and procedures.

Maintains knowledge of animal protocols and IACUC requirements.

Work safely within the lab environment and in performing work duties. Wear personal protective equipment as required.

Provide functional guidance and assistance to lower level technical personnel.

May teach moderately difficult to complex lab techniques to students and research personnel

Attend and may make presentations at lab meetings and journal clubs.

Understanding of basic to advanced scientific laboratory techniques and terminology

Ability to proficiently perform laboratory research and use standard to complex lab equipment; skill with equipment at a level sufficient to troubleshoot routine operational problems

Ability to design and document experimental protocols

Knowledge of large animal anatomy and physiology, anesthesia and post-operative care; able to implement understanding in real-world situations to ensure the proper care of large animals

Thorough understanding of large animal protocols, regulations and ability to comply with and partner with IACUC requirements and staff

Able to provide for and ensure the welfare of large animals on site under the care of this position, working effectively with veterinary and animal care staff

Must be self-motivated and able to work independently; must be able to collaborate effectively and work as a member of a team

Ability to pro-actively identify problems and develop solutions

Ability to prioritize tasks and set and meet deadlines

Ability to work carefully, accurately and consistent with instruction or protocol and understands theory behind studies and procedures

Must be able to work safely and properly use protective equipment

Strong interpersonal skills with excellent verbal and written communication skills

Proficiency in Word, Powerpoint, Excel, and Internet searches helpful

Is knowledgeable and compliant in all hospital, State and Federal regulatory requirements, including hospital policy and procedures (where applicable to the performance of the job), Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

ALAT preferred

Bachelor's degree in biological or animal sciences.

Minimum of 3+ years of directly related experience and progressively more responsible experience in laboratory research and large animal surgical care

None; prudent use of resources and cost-effective ordering of supplies

Duties will be performed in a research laboratory. This setting may create contact or exposure to one or more of the following: chemicals, fluids, sharp instruments and other supplies and equipment consistent with a research lab. Contact or exposure may be airborne or physical. May encounter bodily fluids of large animals. Some need to lift and move large animals in a safe manner. May have prolonged standing as well as occasions of walking, pushing and carrying; other physical effort may be required.

Work will be conducted over a forty-hour workweek, but actual schedule can be flexible.