Research Scientist - Cancer Immunotherapy Pediatric Cancer

Research Scientist - Cancer Immunotherapy for Pediatric Cancer

Overview

The Lee Lab research program focuses on advancing translational NK cell therapies for pediatric cancers. Our work spans in vitro function (cytotoxicity, cytokines, avidity), immunophenotyping (mass cytometry), genomics/epigenomics (RNAseq, ATACseq, ChIPseq, methylation), and in vivo xenograft, PDX, and canine models. Current focuses: inhibitory TME (hypoxia, TGFβ, kynurenine), NK checkpoints (TIGIT, TIM3, VISTA), activation (ITAM/ITIM, CAR design, cytokines), and Cas9/AAV engineering. We also perform correlative studies of early-phase NK therapy trials.

Disease targets include AML/MDS, brain tumors, pediatric sarcomas, and select adult malignancies. The lab has broad federal, foundation, industry, and institutional sources of support.

Job Description Summary

Conducts independent research, designs experiments, analyzes data, and presents findings under the mentorship of a principal investigator. Assists with training and mentorship.

Essential Functions

• Designs experiments, develops protocols, and conducts research with faculty PI under minimal guidance.
• Serves as a mentor and training aide to new or junior staff. Trains and supervises technical support staff in performing specific techniques essential to carrying out the research program.
• Records and analyzes data generated by the research study. Assists in developing hypotheses for further investigation from results of the studies performed.
• Prepares scientific and technical papers for publication in peer‑reviewed journals. Presents findings at local and national research forums.
• Collaborates with other ongoing research efforts either at NCH or at The Ohio State University.
• Works toward research independence, preparing to submit proposals to and obtain funding from external granting agencies.

Education Requirement

PhD or equivalent degree in relevant field of science, required.

Licensure Requirement

Not specified.

Certifications

Not specified.

Skills

• Effective interpersonal skills required in interactions with scientists, physicians, and laboratory colleagues.
• Excellent laboratory technical skills.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Ability to proactively manage and drive projects.

Experience

Research experience from PhD program, required.

Physical Requirements

Occasionally:
Bend/twist, climb stairs/ladder, lifting/carrying 11‑20 lbs, pushing/pulling 0‑25 lbs, pushing/pulling 26‑40 lbs. Frequently: lifting/carrying 0‑10 lbs, standing, walking. Continuously: audible speech, color vision, computer skills, decision making, depth perception, flexing/extending of neck, hand use: grasping, gripping, turning, hearing acuity, interpreting data, peripheral vision, problem solving, reaching above shoulder, repetitive hand/arm use, seeing – far/near, sitting, squat/kneel. Additional physical requirements may vary depending on workload.

The above list of duties is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this classification. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties performed by the individuals so classified, nor is it intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under their supervision.

EEO M/F/Disability/Vet