DESCRIPTION

The Moores Cancer Center is one of just 51 in the United States to hold a National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center. As such, it ranks among the top centers in the nation conducting basic and clinical cancer research, providing advanced patient care and serving the community through outreach and education programs.

The Cancer Center's mission is to translate promising scientific discoveries into new and better options for the care of patients with cancer. The Center supports one of the broadest ranges of cancer activities in the nation – from fundamental and translational cancer research in molecular genetics and advanced molecular therapeutics, and from population studies of cancer incidence to community education about cancer prevention and risk reduction.

Within a leading blood cancer research laboratory the Lab Research Associate will perform duties in a Hematology/Oncology research laboratory specializing in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL). This laboratory receives samples from patients with leukemia, runs clinical trials, conducts experiments on the patient samples to evaluate and understand the biology of this leukemia.

Under general supervision, the Lab Research Associate will participate in molecular biology experiments, organize the data, and prepare summaries for the supervisor. The Lab Research Associate will perform specific molecular biology techniques including DNA isolation for sequencing specific leukemia genes, RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, PCR, RT-PCR, agarose and SDS PAGE electrophoresis, western blotting. Independently perform sterile tissue culture techniques, including processing patient samples and storing patient samples per protocols and established lab procedures. Review new protocols to characterize the patient samples related to targeted genome sequencing and independently perform and analyze flow cytometry data using FlowJo software. Responsible for performing accurate summaries in the laboratory notebook and keep records using word and excel databases. The Lab Research Associate must be able to work independently and with a team of scientists. The position will involve learning and independently performing new techniques at the forefront of cancer therapy and immunobiology. Other duties assigned as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Theoretical background and practical knowledge of molecular biology, immunology and biochemistry and microbiology.

• Experience performing molecular and cellular immunology techniques including: DNA isolation, RNA isolation, PCR, RT-PCR, ELISA assays, immunophenotyping, vector purifications, DNA isolation and transfection, PAGE and Western blotting.

• Knowledge and experience working with proteins, antibodies and cell culture techniques. Knowledge and experience regarding the use of antibodies in flow cytometry and ELISA.

• Experience in the design, construction, production and use of plasmid vectors for recombinant antibody production.

• Experience in the production, purification and characterization of recombinant antibody molecules.

• Experience in the assessment and measurement of Antibody binding and affinity by ELISA, flow cytometry and immunoblot.

• Some experience in the use of equipment such as the Flow cytometry machines.

• Knowledge and experience with the culture of primary CLL cells and cell lines. Excellent tissue culture technique.

• Excellent interpersonal, as well as written and verbal communication skills (using grammatically correct written English and accurate typing) to interact with a variety of personalities at all levels of the organization, exercising tact, mature judgment, diplomacy, and flexibility to promote positive working relationships and job effectiveness. Strong skill at negotiating with various personalities and developing internal and external network of contacts. Excellent phone etiquette skills.

• Proficient at maintaining accurate detail records of procedures and techniques within laboratory notebook. Strong attention to detail required in file and record keeping duties.

• Strong knowledge and ability to use computer software applications including word processing and database applications and email.

• Experience with basic laborator