Position for 2024 is filled! 

We are seeking a postdoctoral associate/research scientist to join our research group. This position is open, with a start date as early as September 2024, and is renewable yearly with sufficient progress.

This position will work collaboratively on projects related to characterization of the effect of the microenvironment on neural response. Specifically, the first project will entail investigation of electrical stimulation on glaucoma models. You will perform research (both in vitro and in vivo), analyze and present your findings at relevant conferences and in publication, and write grants on new ideas and topics. The second project seeks to investigate effects of rationally designed biomaterial on nerve regeneration. Other projects, including independent projects, can be further discussed.

Our laboratory is generally interested in examining how cues from the microenvironment alter cellular fate and response within multi-cellular systems including peripheral nerves, retina/optic nerve and the stem cell niche. 

Requirements:

• You must have a PhD in a quantitative field such as bio/biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, biophysics, or related areas prior to your start date;

• Experience with planning and implementing in vivo biomedical experiments, including relevant statistical analysis;

• Interest in analysis and writing both manuscripts and grants;

• Cultural competence

To apply, please upload a cover letter describing how they support a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment inside and outside the laboratory and cv to Workday. Feel free to contact Dr. Willits directly with questions.

Not currently seeking a lab manager.

This position will work collaboratively on projects related to characterization of the effect of the microenvironment on neural response. Specifically, the first project will entail investigation of electrical stimulation on glaucoma models. You will perform experiments (both in vitro and in vivo), keep meticulous notes, and support analysis and presentation of the results. In addition, you will generally provide research support in our laboratory on both chemical and biological projects, supporting the daily operations by performing technical, administrative, and supervisory tasks. The selected candidate will work closely with the PI, graduate students, undergraduate students, and postdoctoral fellows, to ensure seamless research operations.

Our laboratory is generally interested in examining how cues from the microenvironment alter cellular fate and response within multi-cellular systems including peripheral nerves, retina/optic nerve and the stem cell niche. 

Requirements:

• You must have a BS in a scientific field such as materials science, chemical/bio engineering, chemistry, or biology or related areas prior to your start date;

• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, standard and real time PCR preferred. Experience working with mice is preferred but not required.

• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and documentation skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills and willingness to interact not only with lab members but also facilities and administrative personnel.

• A high degree of motivation, proactiveness, and initiative.

• Ability to work independently and within a team setting.

• Demonstrate honesty, integrity and reliability, with a positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow.

• Proficiency and/or demonstrated ability to use Windows and Macintosh computers as well as common software platforms.

• Occasional weekend or evening flexibility may be required.

To apply:

1. Send an email to r.willits at northeastern.edu with the subject "Lab Manager Position"

2. Attach a cover letter describing how you support a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment inside and outside the laboratory and why you are interested in this position

3. Attach a resume detailing your experience in each of the above areas.

Contact Dr. Willits directly with questions.

The Engineering Lab Support Technician co-op position provides hands-on experience in maintaining and supporting laboratory equipment and environment, assisting with experiments, and ensuring the lab environment meets safety and operational standards. You would work with others to support their projects in addition to learning research skills. Depending on the student, the position may include literature searches and writing.

Responsibilities

• Set up and prepare laboratory equipment and materials for experiments and testing

• Perform routine maintenance and calibration on laboratory instruments

• Assist engineers and researchers with data collection and experiment setup

• Maintain inventory of supplies and coordinate ordering of new materials using online laboratory notebook

• Document procedures, test results, and maintenance activities using an online laboratory notebook, Microsoft Teams, and other relevant software

• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and laboratory standards

• Troubleshoot basic equipment issues and coordinate repairs when needed

• Support the development and implementation of new laboratory procedures

• Develop standard operating procedures and present them to the research group

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled as a Northeastern undergraduate student

• Completed at least 2 years of undergraduate coursework, including chemistry and biology lab courses

• Basic understanding of laboratory procedures and safety protocols

• Familiarity with common lab equipment and measurement tools

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

• Ability to follow detailed instructions and document work accurately

• Good communication and teamwork skills

• Problem-solving aptitude and initiative

Details

• Duration: 4-6 month co-op placement

• Hours: 32-35 hours per week, Monday to Friday

• Location: On-site at engineering laboratory facility

Apply through NUWorks.

We are seeking to add a doctoral student in 2024-2025. Interested MS students must be completing a thesis.

This position will work collaboratively on projects related to characterization of the effect of the microenvironment on neural response. Starting graduate students in our group generally work on multiple projects prior to proposing their dissertation work. In general, the projects you would work on during your first two years include: electrical stimulation to improve neural function; evaluating mechanotransduction in the neural stem cell niche; using mechanical and biochemical cues to speed peripheral nerve regeneration. 

As you collect and analyze data, you will present your work at local, regional, national, and international conferences, write publications and fellowship applications. During this process, you will develop skills including statistical assessment of biological data, image processing, and materials characterization.

Particular projects and expectations are aligned with student goals, which are discussed with Professor Willits yearly through an Individual Development Plan (IDP). 

Requirements:

• Excitement for all areas of research, willingness to learn, and willingness to perform in vitro and in vivo experiments;

• Good communication skills with willingness to reflect and both give and receive constructive criticism;

• Cultural competence;

• Team player.

Undergraduates are welcome to contact us to perform research in Fall or Spring semesters. We also have summer positions, but they are typically for undergraduates who already have experience in our laboratory. Please review our page on Undergraduate Research for openings with specific researchers/projects.

Requirements:

• All Northeastern students need to apply for a PEAK award before/as they begin - start with Campfire or Base Camp awards and move from there;

• Excitement for all areas of research, willingness to learn, and willingness to perform in vitro and in vivo experiments;

• Good communication skills with willingness to reflect and both give and receive constructive criticism;

• Cultural competence;

• Team player.