Temporary Job, Research Gastroenterology

Job description

Gene therapies have the potential to enable the treatment of multiple currently uncurable diseases, but delivery of these therapeutic molecules to the target tissue continues to present a major obstacle to their success and clinical translation. Our lab has invented multiple novel drug delivery strategies, multiple of which have begun to be evaluated in human clinical trials. We are currently working to develop nextgeneration gene delivery platforms to accelerate the translation of these potentially transformative therapies to the clinic. We currently have openings for applicants who are interested in doing research in gene delivery. The outstanding candidate(s) will assist investigators in the Traverso Laboratory at the Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) to develop novel nonviral gene delivery platforms (i.e., lipid and polymer-based nanoparticles for nucleic acid delivery). The research is completely wet lab work, where the work will consist of molecular biology, in vitro experiments, in vivo experiments, and/or polymer chemistry. The position will also require assistance with administrative tasks, keeping a good record and organization of data, performing data analysis, assisting with ordering materials, and similar tasks.

Due to the interdisciplinary nature of our research, students with backgrounds in all disciplines of engineering and science are strongly encouraged to apply. Students are expected to work closely with a postdoctoral fellow and/or graduate student in the laboratories on gene delivery project(s).

Position Overview:

In this role, you will work with a multidisciplinary group of researchers on drug delivery systems. You will work with a NEU alumnus to run and maintain multiple 3D printers (SLA, DLP, Polyjet and FDM), a CNC mill, a laser cutter, and other mechanical fabrication/testing equipment.

Responsibilities:

*Work with PhD students and postdocs to design prototype drug delivery systems via 3D printing/machining

*Operate and maintain mechanical fabrication/testing equipment

*Formulate and perform chemical/mechanical characterization of polymeric materials for drug delivery

*Execute statistical analysis of experiments

*Summarize and document research results/findings

• B.S./B.A./MS student in biomedical engineering, material science, chemical engineering, bioengineering, mechanical engineering or a related field;
• Commitment to producing accurate and high-quality data;
• Experience in conducting tests following instructions and operating and maintaining technical instruments/equipment;
• One or two years of prior experience working in a laboratory environment (at the undergraduate level is acceptable);
• Strong organizational, time management and documentation skills;
• Excellent analytical skills and strong communication and writing skills;
• Willingness to learn new scientific tools and techniques quickly;
• Applicant will be trained to perform techniques in experiments, including techniques related to animal work. After sufficient training, the CO-OP is expected to work independently with minimal supervision;
• Awareness of basic safety requirements and ability to follow safety procedures and maintain a safe work environment.

BWH is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.