Research Assistant II

The Jalili lab is seeking a motivated research assistant II to join our innovative laboratory to carry out cutting-edge research on modeling and monitoring host immune-microbiome crosstalk in the context of infectious diseases, autoimmunity and cancer. We are a highly interdisciplinary team working at the interface of biomaterial science, immunology and microbiology. The prospective candidate will be exposed to a variety of research topics and engage in diverse experiments that utilize cellular and molecular biology, biomaterial science, immunology and microbiology techniques as well as animal models. The candidate will work under the guidance of the principal investigator and postdoctoral associates to help with 3D organoid and Organ on Chips cultures and developing immune monitoring/diagnosis devices. This position will involve cell and bacterial culturing, microfluidic device fabrication and culturing, and handling mouse models. The candidate will also assist in daily lab organization and operations.

This position is ideal for postbacs who are looking to enrich their hands-on research experience before pursuing graduate studies or transitioning into industry positions.

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in biomedical engineering, biology, immunology, microbiology or other related fields. The ideal candidate will be a team player, highly self-motivated, enthusiastic about problem solving and scientistic discovery. The successful applicant must have demonstrable competency or hands-on experience in one or more of the following areas: tissue culture, 3D organoid culture, design and fabrication of 3D materials, molecular biology work, bacterial culture, immunophenotyping assays, or Microfluidic fabrication. This position encompasses a range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: project planning, experimental design, method development, procedure execution, procedure modification as necessary, data collection and analysis, contribution to publications and reports, as well as effective communication and instruction. We are looking for candidates with a minimum of two years of availability, with positions to commence in or after May 2025.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions

• Identifies problems, troubleshoots and analyzes variations observed and reported in regular testing protocols; modifies, refines or adapts techniques and procedures; modifies and/or adjusts quality control measures.
• Monitors documentation of results; reviews and recognizes documentation which may lead to modification and adaptation of research methodologies; may collaborate with others.
• Plans and monitors resources needed to operate the laboratory; maintains inventory control; coordinates space, field, equipment and/or facilities; may monitor expenditures.
• Leads exchange of research information through demonstration and instruction.
• Executes designated research tasks, making use of selected experiments, equipment, field work, library research, data acquisition and processing, statistical analysis or other investigative techniques.
• May troubleshoot and modify experimental methods as well as perform data analysis functions.
• Organizes and summarizes acquired data, using scientific and statistical techniques including computer programs.
• Organizes and/or drafts material for the preparation of research papers, manuscripts, or other documents for publication and/or presentation.
• Assists in grant writing and proposal development.
• Conducts multiple experiments and is responsible for maintenance of equipment used in those experiments. Is organized, responsible and reports results clearly and efficiently to supervisor.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience required is 6 months to 1 year.
• Demonstrated ability in development of research protocols.
• Demonstrated success in coordinating and/or conducting multiple, concurrent assignments or a multi-faceted project.
• Ability to interact with all individuals in a productive, professional, and positive manner to enhance the outcome of the goals of the research program.
• Established understanding of good safety practices and a demonstrated history of safe conduct
• Self-motivated with the ability to organize time effectively, demonstrated ability to manage details.
• Advanced computer skills, ability to develop technical documents and presentations.
• Demonstrated team player with professional, positive attitude and willingness to be flexible.
• Ability to work flexible shifts (evening/weekend/holiday)
• Regular, reliable, and consistent attendance

JAX has a vibrant and interactive research and training environment characterized by multidisciplinary scientific collaboration, unparalleled mouse resources, and outstanding core services. In addition to lab-based training, JAX has developed a unique program for trainees to expand their professional skills in science communication, entrepreneurship, teaching, mentoring and laboratory management to best prepare postdocs for future career opportunities. In Connecticut, JAX resides in the scenic town of Farmington, in the state’s capitol region. The Hartford region, which offers some of the best public schools in the country, is made up of both bigger cities and smaller, charming historic New England towns. JAX Genomic Medicine is also geographically located within 1.5-2 hours of Boston and New York and is close to multiple transportation systems, including bus lines, highways, railroads and international airports.

Pay range: $45,835 - $59,586

#CA-NL6

About JAX:

The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution with a National Cancer Institute-designated Cancer Center and nearly 3,000 employees in locations across the United States (Maine, Connecticut, California), Japan and China. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for disease and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health.

Founded in 1929, JAX applies over nine decades of expertise in genetics to increase understanding of human disease, advancing treatments and cures for cancer, neurological and immune disorders, diabetes, aging and heart disease. It models and interprets genomic complexity, integrates basic research with clinical application, educates current and future scientists, and provides critical data, tools and services to the global biomedical community. For more information, please visit www.jax.org​​​​​​​.

EEO Statement:

The Jackson Laboratory provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.