Research Technician - Tufts School of Dental Medicine

The Takacs Lab focuses on spirochete and vector biology. Specifically, the lab investigates the Lyme disease bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi, its tick vector, and their interactions though a set of genetic, imaging, and biochemical approaches.

Under supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Technician will conduct a variety of routine experiments by following established procedures and protocols including: generating plasmids and bacterial strains, performing microbiological, biochemical, and imaging experiments with these strains, analyzing the data obtained, reporting the results in publication-quality figures.

The tools and methods routinely employed in the lab include molecular cloning, bacterial genetic and growth assays, microscopy, image analysis. Other duties may include monitoring laboratory operations by ordering supplies, maintaining equipment, managing lab space and cleanliness and following laboratory safety protocols.

Performs other duties as required.

Basic Requirements:

• Knowledge and skills as typically acquired through completion of a Bachelor's or M.S. degree in science.
• Previous laboratory experience in microbiology and microscopy are pluses.
• Experience with growing spirochetes is preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and procedures.
• The person in this position must manage their time well and be very organized.
• They should possess the ability and confidence to work independently, under the supervision of the PI.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills are important as the position interacts with many types of employees within the laboratory and beyond.
• Must have basic computer skills - spreadsheets and word documents.