<p>The Rao Lab is seeking a Research Assistant to work closely with a junior faculty member to design and perform experiments, and analyze resulting data. The Research Assistant will gain experience in mouse genetics, tissue dissection, cell culture, molecular biology (qPCR), mouse behavioral assays, ex vivo and in vivo gut motility assays, mouse models of allergy and inflammation, and quantitative approaches to studying ENS circuit function. This is an outstanding opportunity to gain research experience and author publications in an exciting area at the interface of neuroscience and digestive biology. https://raolab.hms.harvard.edu</p> <p>Lab overview: The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is unique among organs because it has its own intrinsic nervous system, called the enteric nervous system (ENS). The ENS is large, complex, and mostly independent in its ability to regulate a variety of digestive, immune and metabolic functions. The Rao lab uses mouse genetic models, imaging, and a variety of in vivo and ex vivo assays to investigate how information about nutrients, mechanical stimuli, and microbes is detected and used by the ENS to regulate digestion, GI motility, metabolism, epithelial functions, and immune responses.</p> <p>Project overview: Sensory neurons within the gut, called intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs), respond to chemical and mechanical cues to affect gut motility, digestion and immune responses. Specific neuropeptides secreted by IPANs likely mediate these effects as well as their inflammatory responses to bacterial infections and allergens. The goal of this project is to define how these neurons modulate neurogenic inflammatory processes, body weight, and pancreatic function.</p> <p>This Research Assistant will be responsible for:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Performing the following tasks typically required for our basic and translational studies:</p> </li><li> <p>Maintaining records of results and methodologies in a log of work performed</p> </li><li> <p>Maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that data are stored according to protocol</p> </li><li> <p>Attending courses in safety procedures for handling, storage, and disposal of biohazardous, flammable, corrosive, and toxic materials</p> </li><li> <p>Carrying out all laboratory activities in compliance with applicable regulations and protocols</p> </li><li> <p>Attending courses, lectures and conferences to further own knowledge and consulting with other researchers to exchange information</p> </li><li> <p>Contributing to the research team by participating in weekly lab meetings and shared lab responsibilities</p> </li></ul> <p>To qualify, you must have:</p> <ul> <li>The ability to start in May or June 2025 </li><li>Bachelor's in Neuroscience, Biology, or Biochemistry. Other majors considered depending on relevant experience and coursework, especially in Biostatistics </li><li>The ideal candidate would be highly self-motivated, organized, and enthusiastic about hands on science </li><li>Candidates must be adept at working both independently and collaboratively to take on new challenges and have excellent verbal and written communication skills </li><li>At least 6 months of prior research lab experience is required </li><li>Experience with molecular biology, tissue culture, and/or working with mice is preferred, but not required </li><li>Candidates must be comfortable learning to work with mice if they do not have prior mouse experience </li><li>A two year commitment is required </li></ul> <p>Please include a Cover Letter with your application</p> <p>Boston Children's Hospital offers competitive compensation and unmatched benefits including flexible schedules, affordable health, vision and dental insurance, child care and student loan subsidies, generous levels of time off, 403(b) Retirement Savings plan, Pension, Tuition and certain License and Certification Reimbursement, cell phone plan discounts and discounted rates on T-passes. Experience the benefits of passion and teamwork.</p>