Graduate Research Assistant
Massachusetts General Hospital(MGH)

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

The Graduate Research Assistant in Engineering (GRAE) is actively enrolled in a graduate engineering education program. Will work directly with the Principal Investigator to apply engineering principals in a laboratory setting. Will collaborate with the PI as well as other staff to conduct projects that will prepare the GRAE for future independent research. Will be exposed to and engage in critical engineering planning and analyses, experimental design and implementation and study management related to microfluidic devices. Preparation of reports and project documentation as well as presentation of results to team members is also included.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Working in collaboration with the Principal Investigators and laboratory personnel, the GRAE will perform a range of responsibilities to support the engineering development of microfluidic devices. Apply scientific and technical knowledge in the design of tools, fixtures, processes, protocols and in meeting other engineering objectives. Develop a pertinent skillset and knowledge base from the real-world application of engineering theories and principles. Work will include:

• Design and construct microfluidic devices for cell analysis, using a variety of methods, such as soft lithographic rapid prototyping and other standard MEMS device fabrication techniques. Ensure devices are operational, e.g. troubleshoot and coordinate and/or perform technical adjustment and maintenance to devices.
• Test integrated microfluidic systems using a range of test fluids, cell types and organoids. Evaluate the performance of the systems through careful data collection and documentation of work practices. Evaluate and optimize cytochemical assays to meet system design specifications.
• Critically analyze and organize data collected in the evaluation of microfluidic systems and review results with the Principal Investigator; make and implement recommendations for modifications.
• Learn to manage research projects, including identifying project specifications, establishing goals, timelines, operational requirements, protocols and other project needs; collaborating with team members and the PI to ensure plans are on target. Ensure safe operating practices, including developing instructional materials and tools.
• Work proactively to resolve any device malfunctions and upgrades. Work cooperatively with hospital staff, vendors and leadership to locate or build alternatives and otherwise support the research in a timely and effective manner.
• Ensure adherence to all research regulatory and safety requirements. If needed, work with team members to apply for and maintain approvals for studies involving human and animals; work effectively with research administration and regulatory bodies to communicate and accomplish goals.
• Create and maintain project documents, disseminating as needed.
• Identify laboratory equipment and supply needs. Partner with team members for the timely and cost-effective ordering of these items.
• Participate in lab meetings and on Center committees.
• Complete duties and projects to support education as well as the lab's research.

SKILLS/ABILITIES/COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of engineering principles, testing and tolerance methodologies and device fabrication.
• Knowledge in engineering, chemistry, biology and computer science.
• Ability to conceptualize and execute research and device models and technical processes.
• Ability to diagnose and solve technical problems
• Computer skills, including AutoCAD, Fusion3D, Matlab, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Good analytical, organizational and communications skills to clearly summarize data to communicate methods used, results, and conclusions for discussion in lab meetings and other forums.
• Ability to learn and manage project schedules for the delivery of program objectives.
• Ability to execute all work independently, including research related, in a highly multidisciplinary team environment.
• Is knowledgeable and compliant in all hospital, State and Federal regulatory requirements, including hospital policy and procedures (where applicable to the performance of the job), Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

Qualifications
EDUCATION:

B.S. degree in engineering (mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering) required. Master's or PhD degree in progress required.

EXPERIENCE:

One year of previous research and laboratory experience is required.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY (if applicable):

Make cost-effective purchasing recommendations.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Duties will be performed in a research laboratory. Work will be conducted over a forty-hour work week, but actual schedule can be flexible. Typical duties may require handling of blood or tissue specimens and working with hazardous chemicals. At times it may be necessary to work some hours in the evenings and/or weekends due to experimental and equipment constraints.

EEO Statement
Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.

This job has expired.