Job Opportunity: Assistant Director, Human Neuron Core Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA
Assistant Director, Human Neuron Core Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital
An Assistant Director position is available immediately within the Human Neuron Core at Boston Children’s Hospital. We are looking for an independent and self-motivated staff scientist that will lead projects utilizing human iPSC-derived neurons to model neurological disease. The assistant director will be responsible for project planning and management, leading efforts to optimize and establish standard operating protocols for differentiating neural cells, high-content imaging, multi-electrode array analysis, training research assistants, and staying on top of what is new in the field to be implemented in the core. This could also include implementation of cutting-edge technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, 3D organoid cell culture, and tissue culture automation. Qualified candidates should have strong experimental expertise in tissue culture, iPSCs, and neuroscience.
The mission of the HNC is to use human patient-derived neurons to model neuronal disease and provide support for preclinical research developing screens to identify novel therapeutics. The HNC is situated at Boston Children’s within the Harvard network, in an environment abounding in experts from neuroscience, neurology, stem cell biology, and high throughput screening. We are fortunate as well to be abundantly supplied with many of the best clinicians in the world. With this network, the HNC has grown to the point where we are now able to offer neuronal differentiation of multiple neuronal subtypes and phenotyping services, including high content/high throughput image analysis, multielectrode array recordings for functional analysis, and targeted RNA Sequencing. The HNC also assists with assay development and the execution of phenotypic screens using automation/robotics and leading-edge imaging equipment.
This position will be responsible for:
- Tissue culture and quality control of human iPSCs and neuron
- Development and use of CRISPR/Cas9 editing in iPSC
- Training, mentorship, and management of research assistants
- As time allows, getting involved with phenotyping, including high content imaging, multi-electrode array recordings, and targeted RNA sequencing
- Keeping good records and following optimized “standard operating procedures”
To qualify, you must have:
- A PhD in Biology/Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Neurobiology or related
- Flexible working hours during weekdays and occasional weekend work (weekend work approximately once every two months) on a rotating
- A minimum of 2 years of experience with iPSC cell culture
- Experience with neuronal differentiations is preferred
- Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing on human iPSCs is a plus
- Extensive research experience in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, or
- Excellent communication, organization, time management, and record-keeping skills a
The selected applicant will begin as soon as possible. This is a full-time, salaried position with affordable health, vision, and dental insurance, 403(b) retirement savings plan, pension, tuition reimbursement, cell phone plan discounts, and discounted rates on T-passes (50% off).
For questions or to submit your resume/CV and cover letter please contact: Denise McGinnis, ScD
Program Manager Denise.McGinnis@childrens.harvard.edu