Laboratory Research Associate

About the Role

The Laboratory Research Associate supports the animal colony operations and routine bench work of a translational cancer research program under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, Dr. Qiongyu Hao. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity and consistency of scientific output across both the in vivo and in vitro arms of the research program, which spans exosome biology, cancer metabolism, and small-molecule drug discovery in breast cancer and acute myeloid leukemia.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee weaning and maintain accurate breeding records to ensure line sustainability.
• Assist research staff with experimental procedures such as tail/ear snipping for DNA collection, injections (IP, SC), oral gavage, and tissue harvesting.
• Perform routine PCR-based genotyping and maintain a digital database of animal strains and genetic statuses.
• Conduct health checks and clinical observations; report any abnormalities or welfare concerns to the Principal Investigator and veterinary staff immediately.
• Maintain and passage cancer cell lines (e.g., TNBC, AML) under sterile conditions; perform routine cell counting, viability assays, and cryopreservation.
• Perform routine RNA/DNA/protein extraction, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting to support ongoing cancer research projects.
• Assist with in vitro drug treatment experiments, proliferation/apoptosis assays, and routine data collection.
• Assist with routine isolation and characterization of extracellular vesicles/exosomes using established core platforms, under supervision.
• Ensure all activities strictly adhere to IACUC protocols and institutional biosafety guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, monitor room parameters (temperature/humidity), and ensure all surgical and procedural equipment is sterilized.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory reagents, chemicals, and supplies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• EDUCATION: B.S. or Associate degree in Biology, Animal Science, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life science field.
• Experience:
• Direct experience handling and restraining small rodents.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (cancer cell lines preferred) and standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blot, ELISA).
• Proficiency in basic laboratory math and digital record-keeping.
• Aseptic techniques highly preferred.
• Prior experience with in vivo animal models (mouse/rat) is a plus.
• Prior experience with extracellular vesicle/exosome isolation or characterization is advantageous but not required.
• Knowledge/Ability/Skills:
• Exceptional reliability and punctuality.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to follow complex Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) with high precision.
• Able to troubleshoot and resolve routine technical difficulties.
• Committed to supporting a translational Cancer Research program.
• Physical Demands: Frequent handling of small animals, standing, and walking. Constant sitting, climbing, reaching high/low levels, finger movement, feeling, speaking clearly, hearing conversationally, and seeing far and near.
• Work Environment: Animal facility and standard wet-laboratory settings.
• Mental Demands: Frequent work on a variety of unrelated tasks. Constant calculating, interrupted work, work on a variety of interrelated tasks, and use of sustained concentration, reasoning, judgment, resourcefulness, analytical ability, and ingenuity.
• Special Requirements: Ability to work effectively with a diverse community. Seeking a career supporting translational Cancer Research and able to make a long-term commitment.

Compensation

• $70,340 - $93,468
• Position Status: Full Time, Exempt