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The Collaborative Center for X-Linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism (CCXDP) in the Department of Neurology at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School is seeking an experienced Research Scientist to lead a broad range of studies involving modeling of hereditary forms of dystonia and Parkinsonism in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). We are the hub of a global disease consortium of scientists, clinicians, and industry partners across North America, Europe, and Asia all working together to develop treatments for X-Linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism (XDP), a rare neurodegenerative disease endemic to the Philippines. Our group consists of core investigators with affiliations spanning MGH, Harvard Medical School, the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, and the Broad Institute. We maintain a large platform of patient-specific iPSCs bearing genotypes associated with XDP and related movement disorders that are used in diverse projects to discover shared disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. The incumbent for this position will lead efforts to use CRISPR/Cas-editing to interrogate genetic sequence variants of interest in iPSCs and develop functional assays to link cellular phenotypes to these variants. The candidate will be expected to have experience with mammalian cell culture, iPSC modeling, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, and related molecular genetic techniques. This individual will work as part of a dynamic team that includes the Principle Investigator and multiple junior faculty, PhD-level staff scientists, postdoctoral fellows, technicians, and students. He or she will also contribute to collaborative projects involving multiple CCXDP labs at institutions around the world.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform iPSC studies and neuronal differentiation according to established protocols.
• Perform CRISPR-based genome editing using established protocols
• Perform molecular genomics procedures as needed (i.e., DNA/RNA extraction, library production, RNAseq, sample archiving, tissue culture, etc.)
• Design, execute, and interpret research experiments
• Routinely check medium, reagents, and plasticwares for cell culture experiments
• Maintain laboratory notebook
• Independently follow detailed protocols while working closely with a wide range of lab members (i.e. students, postdocs, technicians, staff scientists)
• Assist in training new Research Technicians and Fellows
• Responsible for troubleshooting problems and instructing others in highly specialized techniques.
• Investigate, create, and develop new methods and technologies for research advancements.
• Preparation of written data reports, including methodology, figure preparations, written description of the study in the form of manuscripts and/or progress reports.
• Contribute to research presentations at local, national, and international meetings.
• Oversight of laboratory technicians participating on the projects, including training them, and assisting them with experimental design and implementation.
• Compose and present sections of research reports.
• Organize and/or draft material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts, or other documents for publication and/or presentation.
• May contribute to supervision of research technicians and laboratory rotation students

Qualifications
SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Ability to work independently and as a team member
• Experience in mammalian cell culture required (iPSC culture highly preferred)
• Experience in CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing
• Experience in molecular genomic techniques (i.e., PCR, qPCR, RNAseq, gel electrophoresis)
• Interest in learning and troubleshooting new molecular biology techniques
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Sound interpersonal skills and the ability to supervise and train staff effectively.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and adapt to shifting priorities in response to changing deadlines and needs of the lab.
• Ability to function with speed, precision, and an understanding of theory behind protocols and experiments.

EDUCATION:

MS degree in relevant biomedical discipline required, PhD strongly preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a research-related field required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):

May oversee research assistants, technicians, and students.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Work will be performed in the MGH-East research campus in Charlestown.

EEO Statement
Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.Partner's Healthcare is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

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