Research Assistant II

Boston Children's Hospital
United States, Massachusetts, Boston
Mar 13, 2025
Job Posting Description At Boston Children's Hospital, the quality of our care - and our inclusive hospital working environment - lies in the diversity of our people. With patients from local communities and 160 countries around the world, we're committed to reflecting the spectrum of their cultures, while opening doors of opportunity for our team. Here, different talents pursue common goals. Voices are heard and ideas are shared. Join us, and discover how your unique contributions can change lives. Yours included. Dr. Gerdemann's research lab is a young, dynamic and innovative laboratory embedded within the larger CTSI research community at Boston Children's Hospital, focusing on the mechanisms of cancer-directed T cell therapeutics, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) engineered T cells. Our research employs a diverse range of in vivo and in vitro models, including state-of-the-art non-human primate models of transplantation and CAR T cell therapy, patient-derived samples, and xenogeneic human-to-mouse cancer models to perform detailed mechanistic studies. This work has led to the identification of novel immune pathologies in CAR T cell therapy. Position Overview We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to join our cellular therapy research team to advance CAR T cell therapeutics with the goal of translating key findings into clinical applications for pediatric oncology. The candidate will work with non-human primate and human cells, as well as xenogeneic models, generating impactful data to improve CAR T cell therapies. In addition to research responsibilities, the candidate will also serve as the lab manager, overseeing lab organization, inventory management, and ordering supplies, ensuring efficient daily operations. This role provides an excellent opportunity to develop higher-level management and organizational skills while contributing to innovative CAR T cell research. Key Qualifications The ideal candidate should have: Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a solid work ethic Ability to quickly learn new techniques and work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment Bachelor's degree (or near completion) in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or a related field Research Assistant II applicants should have at least one year of relevant research experience Preferred Experience: Background in immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or cell biology Experience in sample processing, flow cytometry, cell sorting, or molecular biology techniques Knowledge of CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing Familiarity with lab safety protocols and handling of hazardous materials Experience working with animal/mouse models is a plus Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to work flexible hours as needed Key Responsibilities Process blood and tissue biopsy samples from human and non-human primates Perform multicolor flow cytometry and cell sorting Conduct in vitro T cell immune assays and CAR T cell generation/evaluation Perform cloning, molecular biology, and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing techniques Construct bulk and single-cell cDNA libraries for Next-Gen sequencing Lab management duties, including inventory control, reagent supply maintenance, and ordering Why Join Us? This position offers an opportunity to work in a high-impact, collaborative, and engaging research environment, where you will gain hands-on training in cutting-edge immunological techniques. You will be part of a team dedicated to making a direct impact on pediatric cancer treatment through innovative CAR T cell research. Compensation and job title will be commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience. Boston Children's Hospital requires all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and Flu, (unless you are eligible for a medical or religious exemption). Boston Children's Hospital is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status or disability.