Faculty of Arts and Sciences
53233BR
Job Summary
The Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) is seeking to hire a Curatorial Assistant II to support a 3-year NSF-funded Collections in Support of Biological Research (CSBR) grant ‘Preserving the genomes of the type specimens in the MCZ’. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Collections Operations, the main purpose of this position is to subsample tissues and cryo-preserve primary types hosted in the museum collections.
Job-Specific Responsibilities
Job-specific responsibilities include:
- Prepare barcoded vials and subsample tissue from valuable type specimens stored in various collections throughout the MCZ.
- Create specifically formatted spreadsheets with relevant tissue data (e.g., catalog number, tissue type, preservation method, barcode number) to allow easy data uploads of tissue part information into MCZ-wide collection database using database batch tools.
- Incorporate tissue data into MCZbase by bulkloading data amassed in spreadsheets to allow new tissue sample information to be added to previously cataloged specimen records.
- Track location data of barcoded samples in MCZ-wide collection database by scanning barcoded samples into positions within barcoded boxes in MCZbase; physically transfer the barcoded boxes to the Cryogenic Collection for long-term storage by placing them within racks inside the liquid nitrogen cryovat after assigning the barcoded boxes to a designated position in the rack in MCZbase.
- Discuss and determine departmental protocols for subsampling from rare preparation types (currently not included within the comprehensive written procedures for tissue subsampling) given previous knowledge of dissection and training provided by the Curatorial Associate of the relevant collection.
Basic Qualifications
High School Diploma or equivalent required, in addition to 1+ years of experience of working in a natural history museum collection, or a minimum of a bachelor’s degree with coursework in biology or other closely related fields (e.g., zoology). Experience with data processing, spreadsheet and database software.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
BA/BS in biology or museum studies preferred. Ideal candidate will have collections-related experience, including practical knowledge of museum best practices and procedures. Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet and database software, and collection database management programs (e.g., MCZbase) required. Candidate needs to possess methodical, precise work habits, a strong attention to detail. Excellent communication skills. Able to work independently with minimal supervision as well as part of a team. Preferred candidates will have experience working in a laboratory environment, specifically with biological samples.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to lift 30 lbs. Climb/use a step ladder.
Working Conditions
Collection/lab and office settings.
Additional Information
This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with a high probability of extension based on funding and performance.
To be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted. Harvard University will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
The Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) is a preeminent center for contemporary zoological research and teaching. Its permanent collections comprise approximately 21 million specimens of extant and fossil invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as frozen tissues, microscope slides and other associated objects, such as the Blaschka glass invertebrates.
The MCZ and FAS are committed to cultivating not only the diversity of our faculty, staff, and students but also in developing an inclusive culture that is vibrant, engaging and encouraging of innovation as well as intellectual debate. We believe creating and maintaining an inclusive workplace allows employees from all backgrounds and walks of life to achieve their fullest potential. We also believe an inclusive culture is one that accepts, values and views as strength the difference we all bring to the workplace. We encourage our community members to participate in our FAS Diversity Dialogues.
Job Function: Museum
Location: USA – MA – Cambridge
Job Code: 403079 Curatorial Assistant II
Department: Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ)
Time Status: Full-time
Salary Grade: 051
Union: 55 – Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers
Pre-Employment Screening: Criminal, Identity
Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9am-5pm
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.