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Job Summary
The Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) is seeking to hire a Curatorial Assistant II to support an NSF-funded Collections in Support of Biological Research (CSBR) grant entitled “Preserving the genomes of the type specimens in the MCZ”. Reporting to the Curatorial Associate in Invertebrate Zoology, the main purpose of this position is to subsample tissues and cryo-preserve primary types hosted in the museum collections.
Position Description
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 in invertebrate zoology, 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
To be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted.
This is a one-year term position from the date of hire. Harvard University will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.
Work Format Details
This position is based on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process.
About Us
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.
We invite individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities to be a part of our community.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website ( https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
Job Function
Museum
Department Office Location
USA – MA – Cambridge
Job Code
403079 Curatorial Assistant II
Work Format
On-Site
Sub-Unit
Sciences
Salary Grade
051
Department
Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ)
Union
55 – Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers
Time Status
Full-time
Pre-Employment Screening
Criminal, Education, Identity
Schedule
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.
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.
