Research Assistant - Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health

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 ecology, biology, and host interaction of pathogens and to use this information to develop approaches to therapy and disease prevention.

This position will involve a variety of laboratory, field research, and computational work under the supervision of the principal investigator and laboratory staff. The research concerns the genetics and immunology of infectious disease in wildlife with a focus on SARS-CoV-2 and influenza disease ecology. Responsibilities will include providing assistance to senior lab personnel in the collection of samples; genetic and molecular analysis of biological samples; assisting with the growth and isolation of viral pathogens from collected samples; performing laboratory assays (including tissue culture, immunoassays, PCR, protein purification, etc.) as needed; data recording and analysis; helping with preparation of laboratory reports; assisting with general lab maintenance, stocking, and upkeep; and training students and new personnel. Periodic meetings with the PI and laboratory supervisors will guide an understanding of experiment needs, special instructions, etc. The individual will be expected to take on new and/or additional duties as needed, be resourceful, self-motivated and communicate as a team player. Some weekend work and late evening work may be required. Field work may require overnight stays or extended trips. This is a limited term appointment lasting through July.

Basic Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in science and 1-3 years of related laboratory experience OR Master's degree and up to one year laboratory experience.
• Required computer/technical skills: Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and biostatistics
• Valid US driver's license.

Additional Preferred Experience, Education, etc.

• Masters degree preferred.
• Knowledge of basic genetics and molecular biology and experience with common laboratory instrumentation and biochemical protocols is expected. Knowledge of organization and management of laboratory operation, knowledge of lab safety practices.
• Knowledge of Apple and PC computer systems.
• Skills in preparing complex solutions, working independently, working in a laboratory environment, conducting inventory and ordering laboratory supplies, and sterile technique and animal experimentation.
• Skills with working with small animal models.
• Ability to accurately collect and record data with an emphasis on precision and detail; to work in compliance with quality assurance control and biosafety procedures; to assist with training laboratory techniques to students at high school, college and graduate levels; to perform and refine laboratory techniques starting from published protocols; to analyze data on both Apple and PC computer systems.