Research Fellow - Drug Discovery

3w3 weeks ago

Mass General Brigham

Boston, US · Full-time · $70,000 – $85,000

About this role

The Shalhout Lab at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is recruiting a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with expertise in small molecule drug discovery, molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or chemistry. The fellow will conduct independent and collaborative research under the Principal Investigator's supervision, contributing to innovative cancer treatments by combining experimental and computational biology. This role advances knowledge and develops solutions aligned with departmental goals.

Daily work involves designing and executing biophysical and biochemical assays, including protein purification, binding studies, cell reporter assays, and enzymatic assays. Perform protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions using SPR, ITC, pull-downs, and FRET. Conduct cell-based functional assays, qPCR, and molecular characterization of signaling pathways.

Collaborate with a team of researchers, faculty, students, and others to foster a positive research environment. Mentor graduate and undergraduate students on research methodologies and techniques. Assist in grant proposals and prepare periodic reports on progress.

Gather, analyze, and interpret data with statistical methods, conduct literature reviews, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals. Present at conferences and seminars to share advancements in therapeutic discovery. Support hit validation and lead optimization through iterative small molecule testing.

Requirements

Doctorate Related Field of Study required
Previous Research experience 3-5 years preferred
Expertise in small molecule drug discovery, molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or chemistry
Strong wet-lab skills to design, execute, and interpret experiments
Demonstrated experience in research techniques, methods, or research areas relevant to the project
Proficient analytical skills, proficiency in statistical software
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team

Responsibilities

Design, plan, and execute research experiments or projects in alignment with departmental goals
Design and perform biophysical and biochemical assays, including protein purification, binding/interaction studies, cell reporter assays, and enzymatic assays
Design and perform protein–protein and protein–ligand interactions (e.g., SPR, ITC, pull-downs, FRET)
Conduct cell-based functional assays such as reporter assays, qPCR, and molecular characterization of signaling pathways
Carry out molecular biology techniques, including cloning, mutagenesis, and protein expression
Perform mutagenesis and structure–function studies to map binding sites and mechanisms of action
Support hit validation and lead optimization through iterative testing of small molecules
Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences

Benefits

Join high-performing teams driving groundbreaking medical discoveries
Support patient care, research, teaching, and community service as a not-for-profit
Contribute to innovative approaches treating cancers with cutting-edge biology