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The Aguirre lab at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a basic and translational oncology laboratory with a focus on gastrointestinal cancers, such as pancreatic cancer. We utilize a variety of genomic, functional genetic and molecular biology approaches to identify novel therapeutic strategies in pancreatic cancer and to test these strategies in patient-derived models or genetically engineered mouse models of the disease. We actively collaborate with clinical oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, geneticists and computational biologists to perform multi-disciplinary translational research.

Aguirre Lab - Pancreatic Cancer Research - Home

The positions in this job family will assist scientists in performing scientific research, development and/or clinical tasks of varying complexity. In general, they will assist in the set up, operation and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations and calculating and recording results.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

• Set up, adjust, calibrate, clean, maintain and troubleshoot equipment.

• Clean, maintain and prepare supplies and work areas and may be responsible for ordering of supplies. Collaborates with Purchasing and may be responsible for negotiating with vendors.

• Conduct standardized biological, microbiological or biochemical tests and laboratory analyses, including the collection of information and samples from organic substances, such as blood, drugs, and animals.

• Isolate, identify and prepare specimens for examination.

• Analyze experimental data and interpret results to write reports and summaries of findings, including grant preparation and presentations, and look for opportunities to co-author publications. May be expected to participate in formal and information presentations of results to staff.

• Participate in grant application process and manuscript preparation as required.

• Maintains detailed notebook of all work-related activities.

• Monitors laboratory work to ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety information as well as the standard operation procedures specific to each laboratory.

• Expected to provide intellectual and interactive commitment to position by keeping up with appropriate literature and research publications.

• May be responsible for the development, modification and improvement of standard operating procedures.

• Uses computers, computer-interfaced equipment, robotics or high-technology applications to perform work duties.

• May be responsible for designing and executing advanced experiments and setting strategy.

• May be responsible for the examination of animals and specimens to detect the presence of disease or other problems.

• May be responsible for monitoring laboratory budgets.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

No supervisory responsibilities.

candidate will be asked to help train additional laboratory members when applicable and will be offered leadership opportunities when appropriate. Candidate will receive general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new projects or assignments.

Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new projects or assignments.

• Bachelor’s Degree required with a major in biology or chemistry preferred.

• Typically requires a minimum of 1-4 years related experience.

• Developing technical expertise, applies Institute policies and procedures to resolve a variety of issues.

• Works on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of a variety of factors.

• Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.

• Builds productive internal/external working relationships.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of information and techniques related to either biology, chemistry, or medicine is preferred.

• Must have excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to work with a wide variety of faculty and staff.

• Ability to analyze information and use logic to address work-related issues and problems.

• Must have attention to detail and be thorough in completing work tasks.

• Ability to work within a team environment.

• A proven record of successful interactions within multidisciplinary teams

• Significant experience in cell culture techniques including use of established cancer cell lines and primary human cells. Organoid culture experience is desirable but not required.

• Molecular and cell biology experience is required with emphasis on techniques such as tissue culture approaches, cloning, real-time PCR, western blotting, FACS.

• Cancer biology experience is desired with special emphasis on cell-based assays for cancer cell therapeutic sensitivity testing.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong. As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

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