Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

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 (e.g., 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.

The candidate should have a background in molecular biology, tissue culture techniques, as well as small animal handling and tumor models. Various immunoassays (e.g., ELISAs, luminex, cytotoxicity, etc.) will be performed, and the candidate should have some experience with multi-color flow cytometry and analysis of FACS data. Immunology background is highly preferred. 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.

Job Description

• Conducts research experiments and assays.
• Evaluates research results, reports findings and discusses project outcomes with staff involved.
• Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
• Coordinates tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Coordinates research project with other institutions and investigators.
• Participates in developing hypotheses to be tested and ways of testing it.
• Assists with general supply/equipment orders, lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs literature research on specified topics.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience:

Laboratory Operations (2 Years)

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Certifications:

No additional certification unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

Document Research, Laboratory Processes, Scientific Research

Grade

R07-H

Salary Range

$17.10 - $29.09 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.