Research Associate

The purpose of this position is to conduct life science research experiments under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI). This position broadly will involve the study of leukocyte trafficking in the setting of tumor immunology.

We utilize in vivo tumor models to look at the effects of modulating chemokines on leukocyte migration in the setting of the tumor microenvironment. Our lab studies the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved with leukocyte trafficking in the tumor microenvironment, with a translational slant and, ultimately, the goal to produce novel immunotherapeutics that can easily and quickly be translated into the clinic. We are taking novel approaches by utilizing a number of delivery strategies (eg nanoparticles, viruses, fusion proteins, etc.) to target various chemoattractants to sites of tumor, using these alone and in combination with other strategies for immunomodulation.

A second focus of the lab is translational immunotherapy in prostate cancer. We are currently working closely with Dr. Robert Schreiber on the first trial of neoantigen vaccines in prostate cancer patients. Our lab will focus on analyses of all patient samples collected during this trial to query immune responses in these patients. Other projects involve patient tumor samples and understanding the tumor microenvironment and responses to immunotherapy. In collaboration with the labs of Drs. Aadel Chaudhuri, Chris Maher, and Malachi Griffith we are utilizing ctDNA, NGS, and single cell RNAseq to understand the prostate cancer tumor immune mileu and identify predictive biomarkers for response to therapy. We have a unique prostate cancer tissue bank with hundreds of samples of tumor, matched plasma, as well as bone marrow aspirates. CyTOF and other modalities will be employed to investigate these tissues.

Key skills will be the ability to learn new techniques and be proactive at moving projects forward. Ideal candidates will have some experience in some of the following areas, although not required: molecular biology, tissue culture techniques, as well as small animal handling and tumor models, various immunoassays (eg ELISAs, luminex, cytotoxicity, etc), multi-color flow cytometry and analysis of FACS data. Other projects will also include analysis of human tissues utilizing such techniques as qPCR, Western blotting, multiplexed IHC/IF, as well as single cell RNAseq. Candidate should be able to analyze data and write up initial reports, both in manuscript and grant formats. The applicant should expect to present at weekly lab meetings and also take part in larger group lab meetings as part of our Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs (CHiiPs). Ultimately, the applicant should present their findings at national conferences and expect to be successful at securing their own grant funding.

Required:

· BS/MS in relevant scientific area

· Excellent organization skills to help with lab managerial duties (eg protocols, ordering, etc)

· Must be able to work independently and be proactive at moving projects forward

· Some experience with the following techniques: Tissue culture, molecular biology, flow cytometry

· General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master analytic software programs

· Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.

· Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.