Overview
The Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health (IDGH) combines four important areas of expertise within Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. These are public/population health, international medicine, wildlife and conservation medicine, and infectious disease research. The alignment of these areas promotes cross-disciplinary strengths that are important in achieving the department's goal of improving human, animal and ecosystem health locally, nationally and globally. Much of the research in the department aims to advance understanding of the biology and host interaction of pathogens, particularly those causing enteric disease, and to use this information to develop immunotherapy and vaccines against the pathogens.
What You'll Do
The position involves working in a research laboratory, in the field, and at the computer recording, processing, and analyzing data. The candidate will be expected to work in collaboration with the senior investigator and laboratory staff to design and execute experiments on the ecology and control of Lyme disease. The expectation is that the candidate will have communication skills, be highly self-motivated, and will be encouraged to be resourceful and a team player. The position requires experience in infectious disease laboratory methods ( nucleic acid extraction, PCR, serology) and advanced data management and analysis (e.g., R, ArcGIS). Experience working with rodent infection models is desirable. Field work may include tick collection and rodent trapping.
Essential functions as a Research Assistant for the IDGH include:
- Coordinate assigned project tasks involving hands-on skills of standard molecular procedures such as DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis;
- Record-keeping; data analysis (including DNA sequence data);
- Able to work on experiments using multiple models for the principal investigator with limited supervision.
- Sample collection and analysis,
- Performing daily tick colony maintenance, infection assays, sorting, managing, and analyzing ticks for infection will be routine tasks.
- Population data analysis and geographic information systems analysis may be required for new projects.
- General lab maintenance; restocking lab supplies, ordering supplies,
- Organization and maintenance including glassware cleaning, disposal of hazardous and biohazardous waste, autoclaving; minor equipment maintenance; preparing solutions.
- Assist with data analysis, grants and manuscript writing, literature search
- Help to train technicians and graduate students;
- Perform scholarly activities, and attend scientific meetings and seminars;
- Other duties as directed by the PI.
The position may involve performing scientific work on several projects under the leadership of the PI as requested.
The schedule for this position is Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm
What We're Looking For
Basic Requirements:
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Knowledge and skills as typically acquired Bachelor’s degree in science and 3-5 years of related laboratory experience OR Master’s degree and up to one year laboratory experience.
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Required computer/technical skills: Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and biostatistics
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Valid US driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in science
- Knowledge of and experience with advanced laboratory techniques and procedures, data interpretation and statistical analysis; GIS analysis
- Basic molecular biology laboratory skills
- Work with small animal models
Pay Range
Minimum $47,800.00, Midpoint $59,850.00, Maximum $71,900.00
Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.
