Research Lab Specialist Inter​/Assoc; Term-Limited

The Misek laboratory at Chad Carr ? Pediatric Brain Tumor Center in the Department of Pediatrics is looking for an exceptional candidate for a Research Lab Specialist Intermediate position. The role offers the opportunity to join a new and growing laboratory focused on understanding the genetic dependencies of pediatric brain tumors and translating these findings into new therapeutic strategies. The lab uses functional genomics approaches, including CRISPR-based genetic screens and next-generation sequencing (NGS), to define novel vulnerabilities in pediatric brain tumors and other cancers.

Basic functions and responsibilities:

Under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator to drive scientific research in the fields of cancer genomics and pediatric neuro-oncology. Participate in contributing to and/or leading research programs within the laboratory. Additionally, participate in supervising junior research staff.

The successful candidate will maintain a core role in leading scientific projects as well as helping to build and manage the day-to-day operations of a new laboratory. The position is approximately 75% hands-on experimental research and 25% laboratory management (which includes training new lab personnel). The candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator to establish laboratory workflows, standard operating procedures, and experimental pipelines, and will be recognized for their scientific contributions through co-authorship on resulting publications.

Duties and responsibilities:

Independently perform experiments to support new and ongoing research efforts in the laboratory (75%), including:

Establish NGS sample preparation workflows

Conduct experiments using molecular biology and cell biology approaches

Assist in writing/preparing manuscripts and grants

Maintain and establish new genetically engineered cancer models

Design, execute, and troubleshoot pooled CRISPR screens, including sgRNA library amplification, lentivirus production, transduction, genomic DNA extraction, and NGS library preparation

Perform molecular cloning, PCR/qPCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, and cell-based drug sensitivity assays

Perform lab management duties including but not limited to ordering supplies, record keeping, managing bio/chemical safety protocols, scheduling undergraduate students (15%)

Keep shared instruments in working order and arrange preventive maintenance and repairs

Maintain inventories of reagents, cell lines, plasmids, and biological samples (including freezer databases)

Write up and keep current the lab?s written protocols and safety documentation

Track EHS/IBC training and compliance requirements and help orient incoming lab members

Assist other team members in their projects (10%)

Participate in laboratory meetings

Responsible for accurate recordkeeping

Train laboratory members in cell/molecular biology lab techniques

Contribute to experimental design and troubleshooting, and propose improvements to protocols and workflows

Additional responsibilities as the needs of the laboratory evolve

Supervision received:

The position reports to the Principal Investigator, who sets overall scientific direction and meets with the candidate on a regular schedule to review progress and priorities. Day-to-day work is largely self-directed; the candidate is expected to plan and carry out experiments with minimal oversight, troubleshoot problems as they arise, and decide when an issue should be escalated.

Supervision exercised:

The candidate will help train and coordinate the work of undergraduate researchers, rotation students, and newer members of the lab, and will oversee their adherence to laboratory protocols and safety practices.

Bachelor?s degree in the biological sciences (e.g., molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology) or an equivalent combination of education and experience

4-5 years? experience in a related field.

A minimum of three years of hands-on wet-lab research experience beyond the undergraduate degree; time spent in a graduate program may be counted

Hands-on experience with mammalian tissue culture and working in a BSL-2 environment

Practical experience with core molecular techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, cloning, and immunoblotting

Experience with, or a strong interest in learning, next-generation sequencing library preparation

Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and meticulous record keeping

Ability to work…