Role Description:
The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University invites applications for a Visiting Graduate Researcher position in the Brain Targeting Program (BTP). The Wyss Institute’s BTP, co-led by James Gorman, M.D., Ph.D. and Donald Ingber, M.D., Ph.D., is pursuing multiple projects directed to improved methods of transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) into the brain, with the aim of improving treatments for diverse diseases of the central nervous system.
The applicant is expected to participate in the research topic “Brain-targeted nanoparticles: Better treatment of brain diseases”. This project aims to discover a brain-targeted nanoparticle platform to effectively transport a variety of therapeutics across the BBB into the brain.
The applicant should have basic knowledge of Neuroscience, Cell and Molecular Biology, and basic laboratory experimental skills. The applicant is expected to perform quantification assays such as PCR, ELISA, Western Blot, IHC, and others with training and guidance. The candidate will have one primary mentor, receive rigorous training and exposure to multiple disciplines, and gain in-depth knowledge about the BBB and brain shuttle discovery, preparing them to pursue academic or biopharmaceutical careers.
In This Role You Will:
- Participate in the entire process of in vivo animal pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) studies to evaluate the uptake and biodistribution of brain shuttles.
- Design and execute in vitro experiments to validate the binding of brain shuttles to their targets.
- Learn cutting-edge technologies and research in the field of brain shuttles and brain-targeted therapeutics.
- Summarize, present, and share key findings with an interdisciplinary scientific team in a compelling, organized manner.
- Collaborate with other researchers to address and solve new challenges and unanticipated problems as they arise.
- Work semi-independently in a detail-oriented, self-driven manner.
What You’ll Need:
- Applicants must be in a degree granting graduate program in the field of Biology, Neuroscience, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutical sciences, or a closely related discipline, OR have a fellowship to support post-graduate research.
- Ph.D. holders are not eligible for this position.
- Scientific skills: Basic experimental skills such as PCR, ELISA, Western Blot, and IHC. Experience with tissue cryosectioning and/or flow cytometry is a strong plus.
- Computer skills: Microsoft Office. ImageJ, GraphPad, and other scientific software are helpful.
- Soft skills: logical thinking, effective communication, adaptability, and self-driven.
Please Note: This position is unpaid. The applicant must be enrolled in a degree program for the duration of their visit and must receive academic credit for this experience. They must also be able to fund their own travel and living expenses or have secured an external source of fellowship support.
Where You Can Apply:
Applications, assembled as a single PDF file, should contain a complete resume and a cover letter describing research interests, goals, and why you would be a good fit for this program. Applications should be sent to faculty_postdocs@wyss.harvard.edu using the subject line, “Brain-targeted nanoparticles Visiting Graduate Researcher.”
EEO Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.