Research Associate, Research Scientist, Clinical Research

Mission Driven, Community Focused About | Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (cdrewu.edu)

Charles R. Drew University is located in the Watts-Willowbrook area of South Los Angeles and was founded in 1966 in the wake of the Watts uprising. CDU was founded to address inadequate medical care in the region and to provide equitable medical education opportunities for underrepresented students. CDU is strongly invested in the local and regional community. The university leads multiple partnerships and programs to provide equitable healthcare resources in a variety of South Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Under the direct supervision of the Project PI/s the Research Associate is responsible for a broad range of routine to moderately complex research duties, including working with mice, performing techniques such as MTT assay, immunohistochemistry, RNA extractions, real time PCR, western blots and biochemical determinations. The long‑term goal of our studies is to investigate signaling pathways involved in therapeutic response as well as drug resistance in cancer, and to identify novel agents in cancer chemoprevention and treatment.

To achieve these goals, we use multidisciplinary experimental approaches applying both in vitro and in vivo animal models, and high‑throughput screening approaches through collaboration with experts in the field.

• In-depth knowledge required in specialized field, process or discipline; organizing and implementing complex research plans, developing methods of research, testing, data collection, analysis and evaluation, and writing reports.
• Exercise independent discretion and judgment in carrying out research activities within the predetermined scope and methodology.
• Participate in research studies including molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, MTT assay, RNA extractions, real time PCR, western blots, biochemical determinations, cell transfections, anesthesia, injections, aseptic work, animal handling, and tissue excision.
• Maintain inventory and supplies needed for the research lab.
• Coordinate with collaborating departments and collaborators.
• Responsible for statistical analyses of data and writing up.
• Demonstrate leadership in presentation materials and manuscripts.
• Assist divisional staff members and other collaborators in relevant tasks.
• Analyze and record research data, submit weekly reports.
• Maintain related correspondence and regulatory paperwork.
• Present research papers at conferences.
• Assist the program in mentoring and providing oversight for student researchers.

• Perform other related duties as required.

• Regionally accredited doctoral degree (Ph.D.) or master’s degree required in biomedical science related area.

• Three years related experience in molecular biology, immunohistochemistry, RNA extractions, real time PCR, western blots, biochemical determinations, plasmid preparation and analysis, cell transfections, anesthesia, injections, aseptic work, animal handling, and tissue excision.
• Prior statistical experience with quantitative data analysis and proficiency with commonly used statistical/numerical software.
• Animal self‑administration experience is a plus.

• Laboratory skills needed including ability to perform biochemical assays and molecular biology techniques.
• Computer skills.
• Written and oral communication.
• Able to troubleshoot and resolve technical problems.
• Committed to a career in biomedical science.

• The ability to perform highly detailed work with sustained attention and care while providing/obtaining information on numerous inquiries is paramount.

• Occasional stooping, frequent standing, constant walking, sitting, climbing, reaching, finger movement, speaking clearly, hearing conversationally, seeing far and near.

• Work environment characteristics described herein.

• Frequent work on various tasks, requiring sustained concentration, reasoning, judgment, resourcefulness, analytical ability, ingenuity.

• Ability to work effectively with a…