The Research Technician I will perform standard laboratory procedures in the laboratory of Dr Marneros at the Cutaneous Biology Research Center/MGH.
Duties include: Mouse colony management and husbandry including Tag and tail, genotyping, and euthanasia and tissue harvest. Other responsibilities will include routine molecular biology, histology/immunochemistry and flow cytometry in support of projects in cutaneous biology and immunology.
Our laboratory is investigating molecular mechanisms involved in wound healing, angiogenesis and inflammation.
Project 1: We are investigating molecular mechanisms that control macrophage activation and the role that activated macrophages play for inflammation and pathological angiogenesis. We have established in vitro assays to identify regulators of macrophage polarization. In chemical screens we could identify pharmacologic inhibitors of alternative macrophage polarization (M2-type macrophages) and could show in vivo that these inhibitors can block macrophage-induced angiogenesis (Cell Reports, 2013; JBC, 2014; Cell Reports 2021). This project aims to define molecular pathways that are critical for macrophage polarization and that influence the ability of activated macrophages to induce pathological angiogenesis in conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cancer or wound healing.
Project 2: We investigate the role of proangiogenic factors for wound healing and age-related diseases. We could show that the proangiogenic factor VEGF-A induces oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation to promote age-related diseases (Cell Reports, 2013; FASEB J, 2014; EMBO Mol Med, 2016; FASEB J, 2018, eLife, 2020). We use a variety of in vivo and in vitro approaches to investigate a novel pathogenic link between VEGF-A and NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Project 3: We identified a novel pathway that is critical for epithelial differentiation, especially in the kidney. This AP-2b/KCTD1 pathway plays a critical role in kidney development and for renal function in the adult. We use mouse genetics to elucidate the role of this pathway for kidney functions (Dev Cell, 2020; Cell Reports, 2021).
In summary, our laboratory uses a large number of diverse experimental approaches (human genetics, mouse genetics, chemical screens, in vitro assays, cutting-edge imaging technology) to define novel mechanisms in angiogenesis, wound healing and inflammation. All of our projects have strong translational clinical relevance.
Our laboratory is embedded in a highly productive and well-equipped environment at the Cutaneous Biology Research Center of Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Cutting-edge technologies are available within our Department and the MGH/Harvard research community.
Interested candidates should send the CV and references to Alexander G. Marneros, M.D., Ph.D.,
Email: amarneros@mgh.harvard.edu
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Please note, the functions below are representative of major duties that are typically associated with these positions. Specific responsibilities may vary based upon departmental needs. Similarly, not all duties that have been outlined will be assigned to each position.
Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. - pipetting, cell and tissue culture, etc.)
Maintains laboratory notebook
Understands and applies basic scientific techniques
Conducts analysis of results and may begin interpretation of results
Sets up and prepares routine experiments as directed
Prepares lab reagents, chemicals, instruments and equipment
May perform independent literature searches
Assists with organizing materials for publication or presentation
Maintains and orders supplies
A Research Technician II performs the duties of a Research Technician I (above) and may also:
Execute protocols of non-routine experiments
Assist the PI(s) with determining the most suitable methodology
Perform basic design and modification of protocols
Calculate, transcribe and analyze data
Prepare and present reports
Organize and summarize acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques.
Organize and/or draft material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts and other documents for publication and/or presentation.
Participate in the design of experiments or field work.
SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
Ability to work independently and as a team member
Good communication skills
Computer literacy
Working knowledge of clinical research protocols
Ability to perform multiple tasks independently
The Research Technician II should also possess:
Analytical skills and the ability to resolve technical problems
Ability to interpret acceptability of data results
Working knowledge of data management programs
Demonstrated competence in research techniques and methodologies
Qualifications PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Prepares basic solutions and performs base-level procedures as assigned (i.e. Pipetting, cell and tissue culture, molecular biology and biochemistry procedure etc).
There will be routine maintenance work for supporting the laboratory such as general laboratory.
Perform routine assays, including RT-PCR, western blots, tissue processing, stainings and immunolabeling
Conduct analysis of results
Will assist in procedures with rodent models
Maintain a laboratory notebook
Attend weekly laboratory meetings and maintains laboratory notebooks.
Will perform other duties as assigned
SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:
Must exhibit initiative and is able to work independently when trained.
Must have technical ability, proficient, and accurate in scientific experimentation.
Ability to work in a group environment and be of assistance to a number of research projects.
Prior laboratory experience preferred, especially in working with mice.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):
None
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):
None
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The person will be working in a laboratory environment ast MGH in Charlestown MA
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.
MGH Institute of Health Professions, founded by Massachusetts General Hospital in 1977, is an innovative and independent graduate school in Boston that is a member of Partners HealthCare. A progressive leader in developing comprehensive models of health care education, the MGH Institute prepares advanced practice professionals in the fields of nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy and communication sciences and disorders through a distinctive combination of academic study, clinical practice, and research. More than 1,200 students are enrolled in graduate level and certificate programs, with an increasing number of courses available online. The Institute is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).