Position Description

This position is ideal for candidates who have finished college and are interested in ancient DNA and anthropology. It is a unique opportunity for interacting in a highly collaborative and dynamic environment and to be trained in a variety of experimental approaches. Direct training by other Lab Technicians and by the Lab Director will be provided.

Responsibilities include:

• Sample preparation in a clean room environment to prepare for DNA extraction
• Extracting of DNA and preparation of Next Generation sequencing libraries in a clean room environment
• Amplification of DNA, cleanup, and enrichment of libraries
• Working with liquid-handling robots
• Keeping a meticulous record of experiments and analyses in a lab book and database
• Decontaminating equipment and work surfaces after every experiment
• Cleaning the clean rooms and equipment on a regular basis
• Frequent discussions with laboratory colleagues working on ancient DNA
• Occasional sample preparation in a non-cleanroom environment such as a museum
• Preparing, ordering, and maintaining stocks of necessary consumables
• Documenting, compiling, and analyzing experimental data
• Updating supervisors by presenting oral and written reports
• Reading relevant scientific literature
• Working well in a team of research technicians with identical duties

Basic Qualifications

• College background or equivalent work experience, preferably in a related discipline
• At least 1 year of related work experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree preferred
• Strong understanding of molecular biology principles
• Excellent fine motor skills
• Meticulous work habits – including keeping a detailed and accurate lab notebook
• Ability to apply critical thinking to experiments and outcomes
• Strong ability to multitask
• Excellent written, documentation, and oral communication skills
• Familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel
• Familiarity with genomics (library preparation and sequencing) and sterile techniques
• Previous work in an Ancient DNA laboratory
• Skilled at troubleshooting experiments
• Familiarity with genetics and next-generation sequencing, Medical Diagnostics, or microarray fabrication (either in academia or industry)
• Familiarity with Cell Culture, including training in sterile techniques

Additional Information

This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 

This is an in-person position based on our campus in Boston.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

Please note that we are currently conducting a majority of interviews and onboarding remotely and virtually. We appreciate your understanding.

The Harvard Medical School is not able to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

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Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace culture of faculty, staff, and students with diverse backgrounds, styles, abilities, and motivations. We appreciate and leverage the capabilities, insights, and ideas of all individuals. Harvard Medical School Mission and Community Values

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.