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Research Associate I - Molecular Cell & Cancer Biology $2,000 sign on bonus
Job Number: 2022-40148
Category: Research
Location: Worcester, MA
Shift: Day
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Business Unit: UMass Chan Medical School
Department: School - Molecular Cell & Cancer Biology - W495000
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary Grade: 42
Num. Openings: 1
Post Date: May 17, 2022

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION:  

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator or designee, the Research Associate I performs a variety of complex research experiments.

 

 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform complex laboratory experiments
  • Conduct in-depth analysis of research experiments
  • Interpret data, form conclusions, and decide on and plan the next experiments to be done with a high degree of independence
  • Write standard operating procedures, schedule work, analyze data, maintain accurate records, and write reports
  • Compile and analyze data. Perform computations using image analysis software, spreadsheets, graphing, and curve fitting software
  • May modify protocols and be responsible for a single, independent research project
  • May assist with budget and/or operational aspects of grant and contract proposals
  • Assist in writing the text of scientific publications and grants.  Review literature
  • Train new laboratory personnel, students, and collaborators
  • Comply with all safety and infection control standards
  • Perform other duties as required.

                                                                                                           

 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

  • Bachelor’s degree in the Biological Sciences, or equivalent experience
  • 3 years of relevant research experience
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office products
  • Strong ability to analyze complex visual data in a quantitative and objective manner
  • Judgment and action skills required to solve commonly encountered problems

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, or designee

 

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: 

May functionally supervise aides, technicians, and associates

ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens.

Summary of Position

We currently have an opening for a Research Associate I to join the expanding laboratory of Marcus Ruscetti, Ph.D. at University of Massachusetts Medical Center. The Ruscetti lab is studying how solid tumors, and in particular prostate and pancreatic cancers, escape the immune system during disease progression, and trying to restore tumor suppressive pathways that are lost early during tumor formation for cancer immunotherapy. Our lab uses innovative mouse modeling approaches, combined with genome editing, screening, and sequencing technologies, to dissect and manipulate tumor suppressor pathways, to elucidate tumor-immune interactions, and to evaluate new drug combinations for treating aggressive solid tumors. This position offers opportunities for career development, including possibly designing and executing independent experiments which could lead to publication.

Responsibilities

  • Perform a variety of laboratory experiments using both routine and specialized techniques, including:
    • Mouse colony management, breeding, and genotyping
    • Mouse experiments, including surgical procedures, imaging, drug dosing, and organ harvesting
    • Routine histology, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence
    • Flow cytometry analysis
    • Molecular biology procedures such as DNA purification, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cloning, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting
    • Cell and organoid culture work
  • Work collaboratively to assist Postdoctoral fellows and graduate students with research projects
  • Collect, record, and analyze data
  • Assist in the training of others
  • Write and provide input to improve current procedures, protocols, and/or methods
  • Prepares laboratory reagents, buffers, media, and other general lab stocks
  • Assist with lab organizational tasks, including lab supply ordering and purchasing

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology or a related scientific discipline
  • Prior experience in a research laboratory setting
  • Mouse experience is highly desired but not required
  • Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to perform complex tasks effectively and independently with general instruction
  • Ability to work in a team-focused environment
  • Excellent communication and computer skills

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