Job Summary
An exciting job opportunity is available in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Michigan. We are a cancer research laboratory composed of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, research faculty, and medical/undergraduate students. Our work focuses on investigating the biology of DNA damage response signaling pathways in tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance, utilizing human and murine cells, orthotopic models, and Genetically Engineered Mouse Models (GEMMs). We are seeking a motivated and hard-working scientist with strong project leadership and coordination skills to collaborate with laboratory team members on cell culture, animal studies, and tissue analyses.
Mission Statement
The mission of the University of Michigan is to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values, and in developing leaders and citizens who will challenge the present and enrich the future.
Responsibilities*
- Independently lead scientific projects under the supervision of the Principal Investigator (PI).
- Design experiments, analyze data, and present research findings independently.
- Train and coordinate with graduate students, undergraduate students, and junior technical staff.
- Manipulate gene or protein expression using CRISPR-Cas9, siRNA, shRNA, plasmid DNA transfection, and lentiviral infection techniques.
- Perform histological analyses, including H&E staining, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry on tissue sections.
- Isolate and analyze RNA (RT-PCR, real-time PCR).
- Conduct protein extraction, electrophoresis, and western blotting.
- Perform primary cell culture (e.g., patient-derived neurospheres, murine embryonic fibroblasts).
- Genotype, intercross, and maintain mouse colonies.
- Establish xenograft and orthotopic tumor models.
- Develop tumorigenic models using GEMMs (Genetically Engineered Mouse Models).
- Monitor mice for tumor development and other experimental endpoints.
- Administer drug treatments or irradiation to cells and mice.
- Harvest mouse organs and tumors for downstream analyses, including mass spectrometry.
- Cryopreserve and recover cell lines.
Required Qualifications*
- Ph.D. in Cancer Biology or a related field, with a strong foundation in molecular, cancer, and cell biology techniques and principles.
- A minimum of 2 years of experience working with animal models, such as GEMM genotyping, tumor modeling (flank and orthotopic models), and colony management.
- Proficiency in data analysis and the presentation of scientific research findings.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Desired Qualifications*
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Strong troubleshooting skills and critical thinking ability.
- Demonstrated strong work ethic, motivation, and attention to detail.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.