Research Assistant II - Leukemia

Research Assistant II Position Summary

This position supports a research laboratory focused on understanding how alterations in RNA binding proteins influence cancer progression. The role involves performing molecular biology and biochemical procedures including plasmid DNA preparation, transfection, PCR, gene expression analysis, DNA/RNA preparation, and electrophoresis. The position also requires routine tissue culture work, animal handling (mice and rats), and performing interventional procedures such as tail vein injections.

Responsibilities include organizing laboratory workflows, interpreting experimental results, conducting literature searches, maintaining reference materials, and coordinating shipments of research samples and reagents. The role further supports daily equipment monitoring, safety compliance, and general laboratory maintenance to ensure a safe and efficient research environment.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to impactful cancer research efforts while building advanced technical skills in molecular biology, tissue culture, RNA processing, and animal model studies. Candidates gain hands‑on experience with cutting‑edge research methods, close collaboration with principal investigators and postdoctoral fellows, and exposure to high‑quality scientific experimentation. The position is ideal for those seeking meaningful scientific contribution, professional growth, and the opportunity to deepen their expertise in a leading cancer research institution.

Minimum Salary $45,000 | Midpoint Salary $56,500 | Salary Maximum $68,000

• Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on the first day for employees working 30+ hours per week
• Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, and Disability coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) leave accruals
• Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid‑leave programs
• Tuition Assistance Program available after six months of service
• Teachers Retirement System defined‑benefit pension plan plus two voluntary retirement plans
• Employer‑paid Life, AD&D, and an illness‑related reduced salary pay program
• Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs, and employee resource groups

The ideal candidate has practical experience in molecular techniques such as DNA/RNA preparation, PCR, cloning, gene expression analysis, and tissue culture. They are comfortable working with laboratory animals, performing procedures like tail vein injections, and adhering to strict safety protocols involving hazardous or radioactive materials. The candidate should be detail oriented, organized, and capable of managing laboratory workflows, equipment monitoring, and accurate documentation.

Strong reading comprehension, the ability to interpret scientific literature, and effective communication with research staff are also essential.

The primary research focus of this laboratory aims to understand how alterations in RNA binding proteins impact cancer progression. Experience in animal studies is highly desirable. Experience in molecular techniques involving plasmid DNA preparations and transfection, the analysis of gene expression including QPCR, microarrays, animal models, and tissue culture are also preferred.

Organizes and performs routine procedures involving molecular biology and biochemistry of RNA processing. Requires experience in tissue culture, DNA & RNA preparation, PCR, DNA cloning, protein synthesis and electrophoresis.

Responsible for providing laboratory services, tissue culture, processing research samples, and/or cataloging samples as required. Interacts with the principal investigators, postdoctoral fellows and other research personnel in communicating experimental design and results.

Requires knowledge of standard radiographic techniques. Dark room usage is essential as is use and proper handling of radioisotopes.

Work with laboratory animals such as mice and rats and perform interventional procedures such as tail vein injections. Retrieves, maintains, and…