Research Associate II, Zhang Lab

The Zhang Lab at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard is seeking to recruit a Research Associate with expertise in proteomics and a passion for learning to join our creative, diverse, and dynamic research team. The Zhang lab is broadly focused on developing programmable therapeutics and working to improve human health and wellbeing. One aspect of this work is centered around analyzing the proteome, peptidome, metabolome, and lipidome to discover new bioactive molecules as well as assess the efficacy of therapeutics we develop.

The goal of this position is to support proteomic and peptidomic projects across the lab, from sample preparation to data analysis. The successful candidate will work closely with a small team of Zhang lab members to develop quantitative and qualitative proteomic and peptidomic assays, including sample preparation, method optimization, enzymatic digestion, isobaric labeling, sample clean-up, and data analysis pipelines. The candidate should have a strong foundation in protein biology and chemistry, as well as a keen interest in protein and peptide function and interactions.

The ideal candidate will have experience in proteomics-based research or equivalent expertise in the field. Hands-on experience with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for detailed protein characterization is essential. Prior experience in operating MS instruments is desirable. Proficiency with common proteomics data analysis software (e.g., PEAKS, FragPipe, DIA-NN, Skyline) is highly desirable, along with experience handling large datasets and performing statistical analyses of proteomics results.

The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard provides an outstanding work environment characterized by diversity, innovation, and a strong commitment to work–life balance. The Zhang Lab shares this mission, striving to foster a workplace culture that promotes diversity, intellectual curiosity, flexibility, and integrity. Our lab is a fun, vibrant, fast-paced, results-driven, and collaborative environment. Broad employees receive a generous benefits package—including a competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, a retirement plan, and additional benefits—as well as opportunities for career advancement. For more details, visit:

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform proteomic and peptidomic sample preparation.
• Optimize methods for quantitative and qualitative proteomic and peptidomic assays.
• Instrument maintenance and operation.
• Process and interpret raw mass spectrometry data using specialized software (e.g., PEAKS, FragPipe, DIA-NN, Skyline)
• Help design upstream experiments to maximize utility of mass spec data.
• Contribute to the lab’s research through teamwork, discussion, and collaboration.
  

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in molecular/cellular biology, neurobiology, biochemistry, or a related field; 2 – 3 years of relevant experience is highly desirable.
• Experience with mass spectrometry.
• Ability to critically read, interpret, and adapt scientific literature.
• Strong organization, documentation, and time management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proven problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Pay Range: 58,000 - 80,667 Usd Annual

The expected base pay range for this position as listed above is based on a 40 hour per week schedule. Broad provides pay ranges representing its reasonable and good faith estimate of what the organization reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will vary based on factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, education, qualifications, and other factors permissible by law. At Broad, your base pay is just one part of a comprehensive total rewards package. From day one, this role offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan; flexible spending and health savings accounts; at least 13 paid holidays; winter closure; paid time off; parental and family care leave; and an employee assistance program, among other Broad benefits.
The Broad Institute is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.
Should you need a reasonable accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact [email protected] for assistance.