Research Assistant II Lab

The Lu Lab is seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Research Assistant to support ongoing efforts in small-molecule discovery targeting the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS). The position will contribute to a multidisciplinary drug discovery pipeline aimed at identifying and validating inhibitors of a large HECT-domain E3 ubiquitin ligase implicated in cancer and other diseases. This role is ideal for candidates interested in research at the interface of chemical biology, protein biochemistry, and cell biology, with opportunities to engage in both assay development and mechanistic studies. In addition to performing scientific experiments, this role will also be responsible for lab management tasks and mouse colony maintenance.  

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Execute and optimize biochemical and cell-based assays to evaluate small-molecule inhibitors (e.g., ubiquitination assays, reporter systems).
• Support hit validation and SAR workflows in collaboration with external partners.
• Analyze experimental data and maintain accurate, reproducible records.
• Perform mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of engineered cell lines (e.g., CRISPR KO, inducible systems).
• Conduct molecular cloning (e.g. plasmid design, PCR), lentiviral production, and stable cell line generation.
• Perform western blotting, protein expression analysis, and microscopy-based assays.
• Express and purify recombinant proteins (from both E.coli and mammalian cells).
• Assist in biochemical characterization of enzyme activity and inhibitor interactions.
• Support mouse work, including colony maintenance and experimental procedures (e.g. Xenografts models).
• Assist with lab management responsibilities including ordering, inventory, equipment maintenance, and safety trainings.

Physical Requirements:

• May be required to lift move and transport laboratory equipment.  
• May be required to work with a variety of hazardous materials.

Basic Qualifications:

• College background in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field, and 1-2+ of relevant laboratory experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor's degree preffered.
• Experience in protein biochemistry Including: protein purification, enzymatic assays, western blotting.
• Familiarity with mammalian cell culture and genetic manipulation (CRISPR, shRNA, or lentiviral systems).
• Experience in molecular cloning (PCR, restriction digest, Gibson Assembly, Goldengate Assembly, transformation, etc.).
• Basic data analysis/programming.
• Exposure to drug screening or chemical biology approaches is highly desirable.
• Experience with mouse handling is a plus (not required).

• Term: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance and continued funding to support the position. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hrs. per week | Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Criminal, Pre-Placement Medical Evaluation
• Staying Informed About Your Application: Due to the high volume of applications, we may not always be able to reach out right away, but you can track your status anytime through the Careers@Harvard portal.

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.