Research Trainee - Structural Biology Core

Benefits

Additional Information

The Research Trainee supports the scientific, technical, and operational activities of the Structural Biology Core by assisting with experiments and data collection related to protein structure determination and molecular characterization. Under the supervision of core facility scientists and staff, the trainee gains hands-on experience in structural biology methodologies, including protein purification, sample preparation, biophysical characterization, and structural analysis techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), X-ray crystallography, and computational modeling. This role provides an opportunity for students or early-career researchers to develop foundational laboratory skills while contributing to cutting-edge biomedical research projects. 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. Essential Responsibilities Assist with routine laboratory procedures supporting structural biology research projects. Prepare buffers, reagents, and laboratory materials required for protein expression, purification, and characterization workflows. Support protein purification activities using chromatography systems and related laboratory equipment. Assist with sample preparation for structural studies, including cryo-EM, crystallography, and other biophysical analyses. Maintain accurate laboratory records, experimental documentation, and data files. Participate in data collection, organization, and preliminary analysis under the guidance of senior staff. Assist with operation, maintenance, and quality control of laboratory instrumentation. Support inventory management, ordering of supplies, and general laboratory organization. Adhere to institutional safety policies, biosafety regulations, and standard operating procedures. Attend laboratory meetings, training sessions, and educational seminars related to structural biology and biomedical research. Collaborate with investigators, postdoctoral fellows, students, and core facility personnel on research projects. Learning Objectives Through this position, the trainee will gain experience in: Principles of protein structure and function. Protein expression and purification techniques. Structural biology methodologies, including cryo-EM and X-ray crystallography. Biophysical characterization of proteins and macromolecular complexes. Scientific data management and analysis. Research compliance, laboratory safety, and quality assurance practices. Collaborative research within a shared core facility environment. 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 committed to having faculty and staff who offer multifaceted experiences. Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and compassionate 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. EEO Poster . Pay Transparency Statement The hiring range is based on market pay structures, with individual salaries determined by factors such as business needs, market conditions, internal equity, and based on the candidate's relevant experience, skills and qualifications. For union positions, the pay range is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). -