UNIV - Research Specialist - Department of Pharmacology & Immunology

Job Description Summary

The de Cubas Laboratory at the Hollings Cancer Center at Medical University of South Carolina is recruiting a Research Specialist I to contribute to cutting‑edge research at the intersection of cancer biology and immunology. Our work focuses on understanding how genetic alterations such as SETD2 loss influence tumor immunogenicity and therapeutic response. By combining molecular biology, cell‑based systems, and mouse models, we seek to translate mechanistic discoveries into strategies that improve cancer treatment.

The selected candidate will be responsible for the maintenance and logistical organization of a basic science laboratory, with particular emphasis on performing cell and molecular biology techniques, and ordering and maintaining lab supplies. We seek a highly motivated individual with previous experience in western blotting, RT‑qPCR, and cell culture.

• Perform a number of molecular biology procedures (35%). Molecular biology experimentation employing various techniques, such as isolation and purification of proteins and nucleic acids. Proteins will be further analyzed by immunoblot analysis.
• Cell culture and in vitro functional assays (30%). Maintaining cell lines and performing various assays.
• Assist with daily lab operations (25%). The selected candidate will assist with daily lab operations including stocking consumable items and reagents, making buffers, and aliquoting reagents.
• Perform routine maintenance of and experimentation in mice (10%). These responsibilities include weighing and measuring mice and treating with compounds. Assists PI in ensuring that lab personnel adhere to IACUC animal protocol. Aid in IACUC inspections.

A high school diploma and two years work experience in a clinical or research setting; a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or other natural, life or health care science may be substituted for the two years of required experience.

• Previous experience in a laboratory.
• Strong organizational, record keeping, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must be able to perform calculations, to follow experimental procedures and methods and develop independence with tasks and experiments.
• Prior experience working with mice is valued.
• Some weekend, holidays and/or evenings may be required.
• Must be organized and have attention to detail. All personnel are expected to maintain laboratory notebook.

April 2025

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The following descriptions are applicable to this section:
Continuous – 6‑8 hours per shift; Frequent – 2‑6 hours per shift; Infrequent – 0‑2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to climb, using step stool. (Infrequent) Ability to work in temperature extremes (32° F to 100° F) when required due to assignments in cold rooms and/or foreign countries.

(Infrequent) Ability to work in confined/cramped spaces. (Continuous) Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Frequent) Ability to fully use both legs. (Frequent) Ability to reach in all directions, stretch, bend, while moving items/materials from both sitting and standing positions.

(Frequent) Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function/distinction. (Continuous) Ability to lift materials up to 20 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift and carry 4 liter waste material bottles a distance of 30 feet, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lift and carry 25‑30 lbs. jugs of liquid a distance of 100 feet, unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift file boxes, from floor level to counter tops, unassisted.

(Frequent) Ability to push/ Ability to lift 40 lbs. centrifuge rotors from floor level to height of 40 inches, then down 20…