Overview
The faculty in Molecular Biology Microbiology (MBM) are united by a common interest in the biology of microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) and the effects of microbes on human and animal hosts. The microbial pathogens program studies microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, with emphasis on rigorous analysis of these pathogens and the immune responses that restrict them. Program investigators direct detailed studies of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and eukaryotic parasites. Research topics include structural analysis of virus entry, viral evolution, viral oncogenes, intracellular bacterial pathogens, microorganisms that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, intracellular signaling, pathogen adhesion, genetic determinants involved in susceptibility to infection, vaccine development, and identification of novel antimicrobial agents.
What You'll Do
The Strle laboratory is a newly established laboratory at Tufts University School of Medicine and is part of an expanding Lyme Initiative at Tufts (https://tuftslymedisease.org/). The lab conducts translational research in human immunology with a focus on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. Our overarching goal is to better understand the interface between infectious agents, the host immune response, and disease. The work is centered on elucidating mechanisms that lead to protective or pathogenic immune responses and how such responses shape the clinical course and outcome of the disease in patients (See: PMID: 37209716 and NBC News Report). In addition, we are determining how host and microbial (B. burgdorferi) genetic factors modulate these responses (See: PMID: 37651316 and NBC News Report). For this purpose, we rely on system-wide genomic (SNP microarrays, WGS) and transcriptomic approaches (RNAseq) in patient-derived Borrelia isolates and clinical samples, coupled with functional studies in cells and tissue. These data are then correlated with clinical information from patients. The projects involve collabo rations with investigators in the U.S. and Europe. The lab is currently comprised of two MS level research assistants and a part time undergraduate student. We are funded by the NIH, Global Lyme Alliance, and Moderna, and are looking to expand. We are seeking a highly motivated research technician to join our group in immunity in Lyme disease.
Training will be provided for both the clinical and laboratory-based research, but prior experience will be strongly favored.
- Conducts routine experiments following appropriate protocols and procedures to achieve results
- Performs techniques such as tissue culture, PCR, immunohistochemistry, electrophoresis, protein
purification and others
- Records results and maintains accurate records of experiments
- Performs limited data interpretation and assists with basic statistics and analysis
- Maintains laboratory equipment and orders/keeps inventory of supplies
- Works with study subjects, organizes data collection, contacts subjects by phone
- Monitors animal colonies and performs husbandry, collects samples and maintains census records
What We're Looking For
Basic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in science with up to one year laboratory experience
Preferred Qualifications:
- MS degree in science
- Degree and/or experience in immunology, microbiology, or a related field strongly preferred.
- Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and procedures
Pay Range
Minimum $19.80, Midpoint $23.55, Maximum $27.30
Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity; generally, new hires can expect pay between the minimum and midpoint of the range.
