Post Doctoral Research Associate - Dr. Rachid Skouta Lab

Title: Post Doctoral Research Associate - Dr. Rachid Skouta Lab

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Biology

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

The Skouta research group covers chemical biology, and in vivo studies. The major interest of the lab is the development of small molecule inducers of ferroptosis cell death with well‑defined target(s) for cancer therapeutics. Ferroptosis is a recently emerged novel cell death that may complement the known programmed cell death (PMID: ; PMID: ; PMID: ). We are currently seeking a highly skilled and dedicated individual to join our research team focused on studying the toxicity and efficacy of small molecules in vivo.

As a member of our team, you will play a critical role in evaluating the safety and effectiveness of novel compounds for potential therapeutic applications. The successful candidate will be involved in the evaluation of the efficacy study of small molecules inducing ferroptosis in mice for the development of better therapeutic treatments. The appointee is expected to establish some independence in research design and execution, and to publish the lab work as appropriate in collaboration with the principal investigator.

• In Vivo Study Design:
  Proficiency in designing and planning in‑vivo studies, including dose selection, route of administration, and appropriate animal models.
• Animal Handling and Care:
  Experience in handling and caring for laboratory animals, including proper animal welfare practices, dosing techniques, and sample collection procedures.
• Toxicology Assessment:
  Understanding of toxicology study design and execution, including acute, subchronic, and chronic toxicity studies, as well as assessment of organ toxicity, immunotoxicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity.
• Biomarker Analysis:
  Proficiency in analyzing biomarkers to assess the efficacy and safety of small molecules, including the use of various assays, immunoassays, and molecular techniques.
• Cell Culture:
  Experience in maintaining and culturing mammalian cells, including cell line generation, transfection, and cell‑based assays for assessing the effects of small molecules on cellular processes.
• Western Blotting (WB):
  Strong expertise in performing Western blot experiments, including protein gel electrophoresis, transfer, blocking, antibody incubation, detection, and quantification.
• Protein Extraction and Purification:
  Knowledge of protein extraction techniques from various samples, such as cells or tissues, and proficiency in protein purification methods, such as affinity chromatography or immunoprecipitation.
• Study Monitoring and Data Collection:
  Experience in monitoring studies, collecting and managing data, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Data Analysis and Interpretation:
  Strong analytical skills to analyze and interpret data generated from in‑vivo studies, including statistical analysis, dose‑response relationships, and correlation analysis.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  Knowledge of regulatory guidelines and requirements for conducting in‑vivo studies, including Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) regulations.
• Scientific Communication:
  Excellent written and verbal communication skills to document and present study findings, prepare reports, and contribute to scientific publications.

• Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.
• Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean's strategic priorities.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

• The successful candidate must have a PhD in Biology or a related field before the start date of appointment.
• At least three (3) years of lab experience working with mice models is required.

• Highly motivated and experienced researcher with a strong background in studying the toxicity and efficacy of small molecules in…