Career Center

Department: MED-Pharmacology
Salary/Grade: NEX/13

Job Summary:

The primary focus of the Horiuchi lab is to study the mechanisms of tumor progression in breast cancer and to identify novel targeted treatment strategies. We are particularly interested in understanding the cellular events that occur in the tumor microenvironment that influence clinical outcomes in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Candidates are expected to be fluent in fundamental molecular and cell biological techniques (CRISPR, inducible shRNA in vitro and in vivo, fluorescence microscopy, etc). Additionally, strong organizational skills and operational excellence are an absolute must.

Please note: This is a laboratory-based position that requires a physical presence primarily in the Lurie Research Building located at 303 E. Superior St., Chicago, IL 60611.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Following overall research objectives, independently designs, plans, conducts and troubleshoots experiments. 
• Evaluates protocols and data obtained from groups of experiments and recommends changes to processes, procedures and techniques to improve quality and validity of results based upon overall project objectives. 
• Using an advanced level of skill, completes the following activities:
  • Molecular Biology:
    • DNA, RNA, Protein isolation, purification and expression 
    • Western blotting
    • PCR, RT-PCR
    • Plasmid preparation
    • Cloning, mapping and sequencing of DNA, CRISPR
    • Recombinant virus production and purification
  • Cellular Biology:
    • Cell culture, cell isolation
    • Functional studies
    • Transfection
  • Histology:
    • Immunohistochemistry
    • Microscopy

Administration

• Observes experiments, collects, records, summarizes, analyzes and interprets research data.
• Collates relevant mathematical results.
• Prepares complex tables reflecting relationships of multiple tests. 
• Draws scientific conclusions.
• Writes portions of grant applications.
• Co-authors scientific papers.

Finance

• Negotiates purchases with vendors. 
• Verifies accuracy of invoices. 

Supervision

• Trains and directs other lab EEs and/or students in research techniques and procedures.

Miscellaneous

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 3 years' lab/bench or other relevant experience required; OR
• Successful completion of a full course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a master's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience and 1 year lab/bench or other relevant experience.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• A solid working knowledge of molecular & cell biology techniques including but not limited to nucleic acid/protein handling, molecular cloning, gene expression/silencing/editing (CRISPR and inducible shRNA), cell culture, and fluorescence microscopy (epi- or confocal)
• Basic understanding of cancer biology

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior in-depth training in cancer research involving rodent animal models (e.g., transgenic/syngeneic/PDX) is desired
• A solid understanding of fundamental statistical analysis methods

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• An advanced training in immunological assays (ELISA, 10+ color flow cytometry)
• Prior experience in performing unbiased gene/protein expression profiling (RNAseq, proteomics)

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life’s challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

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