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Research Technician - Molecular Cancer Imaging Facility

Job Description

Job ID:
39275

Location:
27 Dry Dock Ave, Boston, MA 02210

Category:
Research Laboratory

Employment Type:
Full time

Work Location:
Onsite: 100% onsite

Overview

The Molecular Cancer Imaging Facility (MCIF) at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) collaborates with internationally renowned investigators and companies to conduct ground-breaking research in radiopharmaceutical development. The MCIF is adjacent to DFCI’s preclinical imaging facility, allowing evaluation of novel diagnostics and therapeutics in virtually any clinically relevant cancer model in longitudinal treatment studies. The early-stage preclinical R&D work performed MCIF can then be translated to clinic to allow physicians to better diagnose and characterize cancer, choose targeted therapies, monitor treatment efficacy, and improve the outcomes of adult and pediatric cancer patients.

Dana-Farber’s Molecular Cancer Imaging Facility (MCIF) is seeking outstanding applicants for Research Technician to support MCIF’s pre-clinical activities. 

The Research Technician will work in a team setting, take direction from the Facility’s Scientific Director and be involved in activities related to radioactive materials management, cyclotron operations support, as well as additional aspects of program support, as needed. This position presents an excellent opportunity to develop advanced skills in the fast-growing field of radiopharmaceuticals (including theranostics) through direct engagement with a wide range of projects and leaders in the field.

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.

Responsibilities

  • 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.
  • Ensure the safe and reliable flow of radioactive materials into and out of MCIF. This includes all aspects of receiving, inventory management, and waste management. Required training and certification will be provided by Dana-Farber
  • Act as primary or secondary contact with couriers and external logistics personnel to initiate requests for radioactive deliveries and shipments
  • Serve as alternate operator of a GE PETtrace 800 cyclotron. Internal training program will be provided by Dana-Farber
  • Assist in the maintenance of equipment (analytical, radiosynthesis, and facility-related)
  • Responsible for routine cleaning of radiation control areas
  • Maintain clear and accurate records
  • Prepare and follow standard operating procedures
  • Interpret data, recognize aberrant results, and propose next steps
  • Summarize data for reports, incident investigations, etc.
  • Must be able to lift 30 lbs (vial shields, syringe shields, etc.)
  • Must be comfortable working with and handling radioactive materials
  • Must be able to frequently acquire and apply new skills and techniques
  • Must have a high degree of self-initiative to recognize, investigate, and solve problems in a timely manner

Qualifications

REQUIRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

  • BSc Degree in Chemistry or related field with 0 - 4 years of related experience
  • Working knowledge of organic and analytical chemistry is highly desirable
  • 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.

PREFERRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:

  • Working knowledge of radiochemistry laboratory operations is a plus
  • Experience in production and testing of products for animal or human use
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team setting
  • Strong communication skills, including proficiency in English, both written and oral
  • Ability to prioritize projects and troubleshoot problems both independently and as part of a team

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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