Research Lab Specialist Lead

at  University of Michigan

JOB SUMMARY

Opportunity for Research Laboratory Specialist Lead to work in one of the leading laboratories in cancer stem cell biology developing novel therapeutics. The Laboratory of Dr. Max Wicha at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor is recruiting an experienced and highly motivated scientist to join our collaborative team to lead a project. This non-tenure track position will independently lead projects focused on therapeutic targeting of cancer stem cells, tumor dormancy in breast cancer, epigenetics, and translational studies involving metabolic and immunologic targeting of breast cancer stem cells. You will report directly to Dr. Wicha and will work full-time on-site with some opportunities for remote work.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS*

A successful candidate for this position should hold a PhD in a biological science and/or an MD with a minimum of 6 years research experience with training in biomedical sciences; preferably in cancer biology or a related field, with a focus in immunology and/or cellular metabolism. Applicants should have experience performing 2D/3D cell culture assays, flow cytometry and analysis of cytometry data, in vivo experiments using mouse models, and molecular biology techniques such as PCR, western blotting, and transcriptome analysis. Applicants should have experience leading research studies and supervising others. Applicants must be fluent in spoken and written English, have excellent oral and written communication skills, and be able to adapt to shifting priorities in response to changing deadlines and the needs of the lab.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS*

• Experience with a focus in immunology and/or cellular metabolism.
• The ideal candidate will have significant experience in molecular biology and mouse models of cancer (breast cancer preferred), experience with in vivo mouse studies and xenograft studies, and experience with a focus in immunology and/or cellular metabolism.
• Proficiency in cellular/molecular biology techniques with a focus on cell proliferation, metabolism, epithelial/mesenchymal transition, and stemness.
• Previous publications in the fields of metabolism, immunology, stem cell biology, epigenetics or cancer therapeutics.
• Solid background in molecular biology/biochemistry, tumor biology immunology and/or immunology.
• Experience with bioinformatics analysis of RNAseq, scRNAseq, and/or spatial RNAseq data.

• Perform cancer stem cell assays (mammosphere assay in vitro, tumor initiation assay in vivo, flow cytometry for ALDH via aldefluor and CD44/24 staining), immunofluorescence imaging, RNAseq at the bulk and single cell level, and murine breast tumor inoculation studies (orthotopic and intracardiac delivery of tumor cells).
• Conduct research independently under PI guidance; including independently designing, planning, and completing research studies.
• Participate in multi-institutional collaborations on projects related to study goals.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to grant writing efforts.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of research findings and the analysis of results.
• Written and oral dissemination of results via professional meetings, presentations, and publications.
• Directly mentor junior trainees in the lab; including postdoctoral fellows, research assistants/technicians, graduate students, and undergraduate students in laboratory techniques and experimental design.
• Compile and analyze data using advanced knowledge of science and mathematical principles.