Research Assistant I Genitourinary Med Oncology

About the Role

The Research Assistant I role supports critical scientific discovery through laboratory-based and translational research activities that advance understanding of cancer biology and treatment. Within GU Medical Oncology Research, the Research Assistant I contributes to research focused on bone metastasis, in vivo imaging, and tissue engineering.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs cell culture of tumor cell lines, NK cells, and 3D tissue-engineered cultures based on polymeric scaffolds for organotypic tumor growth in vitro.
• Performs immunofluorescence experiments.
• Performs basic imaging bioluminescence experiments of small animals independently and analyzes data.
• Performs small animal manipulation, treatment, and management.
• Operates independently microscopes (multiphoton, confocal, and epifluorescence) to acquire images and perform time lapse analysis.
• Independently performs analysis.
• Communicates results to and understands instructions from supervisors and coworkers.
• Clear and accurate communication in English both face-to-face and over the telephone is required.
• Willingness to cooperate with other staff, students, fellows, and visitors is essential.
• Capable of generating electronic versions of data and images for analysis and presentation.
• Manages inventories and orders material for the laboratory in a timely fashion.
• Works with department members and collaborators to ensure the consistent flow of information and quality control.
• Reads and understands articles related to ongoing technical research.
• Assembles instruments, samples, reagents, dry or wet ice, data, and packaging materials for shipments.
• Drafts a cover letter, accurately and legibly fills out shipping labels.
• Carries packages to the receiving area prior to carrier pickup.
• Keeps accurate and legible logs of outgoing and incoming packages.
• For incoming packages: ascertains contents, stores at appropriate location, files information sheets, and notifies the principal investigator.
• Updates pertinent inventory logs and patient tissue logs in compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Performs related work as required.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Advanced imaging technologies
• Cell culture systems
• Animal models
• Small animal studies
• Microscopy platforms
• Image analysis software
• Laboratory inventory management
• Scientific communication
• Basic knowledge on software and macro programming (e.g., ImageJ, Matlab)
• Image stitching and post processing
• Computer literacy
• Cloud-based image and data management
• CAD design of hardware (preferred)
• Basic knowledge of cancer cell biology (preferred)

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Natural Science or Applied Science in a research-related discipline.
• Experience working in GU Medical Oncology (preferred).
• Experience with small animal studies, microscopy platforms, image analysis software, laboratory inventory management, and scientific communication (preferred).