JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Research Specialist/Scientific Writer
Job Code: 000144
Salary Plan: Exempt
Lab: Batista
Direct Supervisor: Facundo Batista
Employing Hospital and Department:
Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard
Minimum degree and field of knowledge: MA/MS/MPH or PhD
Years experience required: 7+ years
Summary:
A position is open for a full-time Research Specialist/Scientific Writer at the Ragon Institute of MGH, Harvard
and MIT in the laboratory of Dr. Facundo Batista. The lab specifically focuses on understanding the cellular and
molecular mechanisms controlling B cell activation and fate, using a broad range of approaches and techniques
including cutting-edge imaging. Knowledge gained from these studies will help to guide the design of more
effective vaccines and treatments against various infectious pathogens including HIV and Influenza. This is an
exciting opportunity to play a key role as part of an ambitious highly competitive research lab.
This is unusual post is for a highly motivated and versatile Scientist who will work very closely with the PI. The
successful candidate will have excellent scientific writing skills and an interest in the work of Dr Batista
Laboratory.
We are now looking for an enthusiastic, thoughtful and highly committed Scientific Writer, who will mainly:
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Assist Dr. Batista in his scientific writing, which includes writing and editing reviews, reports,
manuscripts and theses as well as be heavily involved in the preparation of grant applications.
Contribute to the conceptual framework of the ongoing projects by evaluating and searching scientific
literature and actively participating in scientific discussion and critical data analysis.
Organize and control internal and sometimes confidential information such as unpublished manuscripts,
manuscript reviews or MTAs.
The ideal candidate will also facilitate the research activities of the laboratory through scientific discussion,
critical data analysis, a sound knowledge of the current literature and practical assistance, and will not require
bench work. Instead searching the scientific literature and facilitating the research activities and scientific
output of the laboratory through, scientific discussion, critical data analysis and a sound knowledge of the
current literature.
The successful candidate will have a PhD in immunology or extensive proven experience in scientific writing.
Excellent scientific writing skills and an excellent command of the English language, both written and spoken,
is essential.
Preference may be given to candidates who have a good knowledge of immunology and a good general
scientific knowledge.
Job Duties:
 Working closely with the Principal Investigator, the applicant independently carries out daily activities
focusing in providing high level intellectual input as well as high quality writing and editing support.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
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Producing articles for publication in print and online, following journal style requirements. Preparing and
modifying the figures accordingly. Reviewing and adapting the manuscripts according editors and referees
feedback.
Contributing to external manuscript reviews, thoroughly and confidentially.
Supporting the Head of the laboratory and his team in their manuscripts, theses and grant applications.
Helping colleagues to plan the conductive thread of their papers and identifying eventual missing
information or needed experiments. Proofreading other members’ papers and eventually assisting them
with their writing.
Identifying, reading and distributing in the lab relevant papers. Identifying applicable grants and funding
resources.
Assisting in administrative procedures, such as Health and Safety requirements, licenses or other legal
issues as well as in any outstanding logistical operation.
Attending scientific and administrative meetings, academic conferences or any other. Attending interviews
with other scientists, doctors and academics. Assisting in new postdocs’ and PhD students’ recruitment.
KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
Essential Skills
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A PhD or MSc in immunology –or very close related discipline- and sound knowledge of immunology.
Excellent scientific writing skills and outstanding command of the English language both written and
spoken.
Extensive proven experience in scientific writing.
Ability to evaluate and organize data for written and oral presentation both to immunology and lay
audiences.
Excellent organization skills and ability to meet deadlines and prioritize effectively your workload.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, in particular with others who do not have English
as first language.
Advanced user of Microsoft Office 2010 and other programs such as Filemaker, Adobe Illustrator or
Photoshop. Willingness to learn new programs when needed.
Desirable Skills
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Keen interest in the research of the Lymphocyte Interaction Laboratory and a good general scientific
knowledge.
Highly motivated and versatile Scientist, willing to commit with a long-term project.
Good bench skills, including experience in molecular biology, cell biology and genetics.