Research Scientist I – Hwang Lab

The Hwang laboratory within the Center for Integrated Solutions for Infectious Diseases (CISID) at the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard is seeking a highly motivated individual to investigate the host genetic landscape of human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven cellular immortalization and transformation. Infection with ‘high-risk’ HPVs cause cervical cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, and other anogenital cancers. Although vaccination could prevent the majority of high-risk HPV infections, vaccine uptake rates remain low in many parts of the world, and HPV vaccination cannot treat precancerous lesions or cancers. Therefore, HPV-associated cancers present an urgent public health need.

For instance, in 2022 there were about 660,000 new cases of cervical cancer and about 350,000 deaths caused by cervical cancer worldwide, making it the fourth leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths in women. The essential drivers of HPV-mediated carcinogenesis are the HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins, and inhibiting key transforming activities of the high-risk HPV oncoproteins has high potential to treat HPV-positive cancers. For the goal of understanding and inhibiting the carcinogenesis by HPV, functional genomics screens will be performed.

We are looking for a skillful Research Scientist I who can drive this high-risk high reward project. Training and expertise in virology and functional genomics are essential. The applicant will be expected to work well in a multi-institute collaboration setting, communicate effectively, and possess a strong desire to contribute to basic and translational research. This opportunity is particularly suited for candidates who are passionate about researching host-pathogen interaction, especially virus-induced cancers.

Our team is ideally seeking a candidate with

• A deep understanding and genuine interest in infectious disease studies
• Solid understanding and hands-on experience in functional genomics like CRISPR screens, next-generation sequencing, and single-cell data
• Experiences in virology assays, handling and modulating primary cells from humans in the presence and absence of infection Key

Responsibilities

• Work independently and with team members to design and carry out experiments essential to the individual project and the group’s collective success.
• Consult the literature, supervisor, and other scientific staff as needed to troubleshoot experiments.
• Investigate, learn, and develop new methods and technologies that might be relevant to the project.
• Maintain and share detailed experimental records, documentation, and written protocols with team members.
• Contribute to grants, papers, and patents.

Required Skills

• Excellent communication (oral and written) and wet lab skills, organization, and time management skills.
• High level of initiative and motivation; ability to work independently and with a team.
• Strong desire to learn new methods and ability to think creatively to solve problems.
• Experience with one or more of the following techniques is also preferred: microscopy, biochemical assay development, quantitative data analysis, and bioinformatic and data science skills.
• Proven ability to build relationships with collaborators and influence without direct supervisory authority and proactively anticipate, identify, and mitigate potential issues before they arise.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in virology, microbiology, genetics, immunology, or a closely related field.
• 1+ years of relevant post-graduate experience.

We pride ourselves on being creative and forward-thinking not only in the way we approach our science but also in the way we support our people.

Check out a sampling of our benefits

• 3 weeks of vacation within the first year
• 13 paid holidays plus an annual winter closing from Christmas to New Year’s
• Commuter passes subsidized at 50%
• Tuition reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year
• Lean Box, a vending machine of fresh, healthy snacks available at subsidized prices
• Discounts on entertainment, goods, and services through Working Advantage
• Regular seminars and discussion groups hosted by our Broad Life office to help you deal with a diverse array of work-life issues and make it easier to integrate work, personal, and family commitments