The Research Fellow will assist in the management of the UNITE or VA-BU-CLF Brain Bank, a repository of post-mortem human brain tissue and other central nervous system biospecimens (spinal cord, CSF, blood, eyes). The incumbent will work closely with neuropathologists (Drs. McKee, Stein, Huber and Alvarez) in preparing post-mortem brain tissue for comprehensive neuropathological analysis. Applicants should have a working knowledge of neuroanatomy and be interested in neurodegenerative disease research which includes but is not limited to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and Alzheimer’s Disease.
Major duties include: coordinating processing and storage of human tissue, brain dissection and tissue cutting, preparing brain tissue for collection and shipment to external investigators, organizing incoming brain donations, entering data and organizing data collection, helping with general administrative tasks, and other duties that will be assigned by the direct supervisor. In addition to daily tasks, applicants will be given the opportunity to participate on a research project and help prepare a manuscript based on the brain bank research.
The position represents a unique opportunity to enhance neuroanatomy knowledge, human brain dissection and participate in groundbreaking research.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION 1:
45% Independently prepare brain tissue for analysis. This includes photographing and dissection of fresh and fixed human biospecimens for neuropathological analysis and for internal and external research studies.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION 2:
25% Oversight of multiple biorepositories. This includes database management, quality control measures, safety and lab workflow. This involves troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, etc.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION 3:
20% Training staff, including postdoctoral associates, medical students, and research assistants with current workflow, updating protocols and assuring compliance with all safety measures.
This includes, but is not limited to: daily, weekly, and monthly check-ins with staff members, in-person meetings, as well as formal/informal training opportunities.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTION 4:
10% Creating photo library including macroscopic and microscopic imaging. This includes record keeping, image input and compiling records for neuropathology reports.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
The work is performed in a basic research laboratory of a hospital. It involves regular and recurring moderate risks or discomforts that require special safety precautions, e.g., working around moving parts, carts, or machines, with contagious agents or irritant chemicals. The work requires some physical exertion such as walking, standing, bending, crouching, stooping, kneeling, stretching, reaching, lifting, and pushing. Employees are required to use protective clothing or gear, such as gloves, lab coats, goggles or face shields, gowns, masks, or other shields to moderate risks, or to follow procedures for minimizing risks.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
This is not a virtual position and may involve irregular work schedules.
JOB LOCATION:
VA Boston Healthcare System (Jamaica Plain) and VA Bedford Healthcare System
Full-Time
Required Skills
Eligible candidates should have a Master’s degree in biology, neurosciences, or related field and preferably 5+ years of experience working in wet lab. The position will require excellent interpersonal skills both verbal and written, ability to work with limited oversight and maintain meticulous attention to detail. Computer software proficiency and a background in statistical analysis is preferred. Applicant must have access to a car, to travel between (2) VA sites.
Appointment duration is up to three years (one year minimum, two years preferred), renewable.
Cover letter is required, send to Kelly McLean at oges@bu.edu
DO NOT APPLY THROUGH BOSTON UNIVERSITY HR WEBSITE.
Required Experience
Eligible candidates should have a Master’s degree in biology, neurosciences, or related field and preferably 5+ years of experience working in wet lab. The position will require excellent interpersonal skills both verbal and written, ability to work with limited oversight and maintain meticulous attention to detail. Computer software proficiency and a background in statistical analysis is preferred. Applicant must have access to a car, to travel between (2) VA sites.
Appointment duration is up to three years (one year minimum, two years preferred), renewable.
Cover letter is required, send to Kelly McLean at oges@bu.edu
DO NOT APPLY THROUGH BOSTON UNIVERSITY HR WEBSITE.