Research Professional

About the Role

The University of Chicago's Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation seeks a full-time Research Professional to support the research program of the Applebaum Lab. The lab investigates the genomic and molecular mechanisms underlying high-risk neuroblastoma, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers. Current research areas include epigenetic regulation, chromatin remodeling, biomarker development, functional genomics, and computational approaches to pediatric cancer research.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments and collect, manage, analyze, and interpret research data related to neuroblastoma using appropriate experimental, quantitative, computational, and statistical approaches.
• Participate in the design, development, and advancement of research projects, including studies involving functional genomics, epigenetics, biomarkers, molecular biology, and clinical or patient-derived datasets.
• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator and laboratory personnel to develop and implement new research projects, coordinate activities, and advance research priorities.
• Contribute to the preparation and writing of grant applications, protocols, manuscripts, abstracts, and other scientific materials, including figures, data summaries, and research findings.
• Provide scientific, technical, and analytical support to research projects and contribute to the interpretation and evaluation of findings.
• May assist with training and mentoring students and research personnel in research methods, laboratory procedures, data analysis, and scientific practices.
• Participate in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co-author/author scientific research manuscripts.
• Provide peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts.
• Collaborate on the development of new research projects with academic and community-based organizations.
• May present work at scientific meetings.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• PhD in related field
• < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Experience in an academic laboratory setting.
• Hands-on experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as CRISPR, CUT&RUN, epigenetic and epitranscriptomic assays evaluating analytes such as 5mC, 5hmC, and m6A.
• Experience collecting, managing, and analyzing experimental data using appropriate quantitative and statistical approaches, including data visualization.
• Experience contributing to the design, optimization, or execution of research projects, including interpretation and troubleshooting of results.
• Experience maintaining accurate and detailed research records and following established protocols and safety standards.
• Experience preparing scientific materials such as figures, data summaries, reports, abstracts, grants, or presentations.
• Proficiency in techniques including flow cytometry, mouse handling, and molecular biology and epigenetic methods.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cancer biology, or a related life science or quantitative field.
• Completed postdoctoral training with a strong publication record in relevant areas (preferred).