Lab Research Associate, Translational Cancer Biology

Charles-R-Drew-University; California (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 93,000; Full time

Job summary

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is seeking a Laboratory Research Associate to support animal colony operations and routine bench work in a translational cancer research program.

You will balance animal welfare with cancer biology duties, including cell culture, molecular assays, and drug-response studies. The role spans in vivo and in vitro projects on exosome biology, cancer metabolism, and small-molecule discovery in breast cancer and AML.

Qualifications

• Direct experience handling and restraining small rodents.
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture (cancer cell lines preferred) and standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, Western blot, ELISA).
• Proficiency in basic laboratory math and digital record-keeping.
• Familiarity with aseptic techniques is highly preferred.
• Prior experience with in vivo animal models (mouse/rat) is a plus.
• Prior experience with extracellular vesicle/exosome isolation or characterization is advantageous but not required.

Responsibilities

• Oversee weaning and maintain accurate breeding records to ensure line sustainability.
• Assist research staff with experimental procedures such as tail/ear snipping for DNA collection, injections (IP, SC), oral gavage, and tissue harvesting.
• Perform routine PCR-based genotyping and maintain a digital database of animal strains and genetic statuses.
• Conduct health checks and clinical observations; report any abnormalities or welfare concerns to the Principal Investigator and veterinary staff immediately.
• Maintain and passage cancer cell lines (e.g., TNBC, AML) under sterile conditions; perform routine cell counting, viability assays, and cryopreservation.
• Perform routine RNA/DNA/protein extraction, qRT-PCR, and Western blotting to support ongoing cancer research projects.
• Assist with in vitro drug treatment experiments, proliferation/apoptosis assays, and routine data collection.
• Assist with routine isolation and characterization of extracellular vesicles/exosomes using established core platforms, under supervision.
• Ensure all activities strictly adhere to IACUC (Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee) protocols and institutional biosafety guidelines.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, monitor room parameters (temperature/humidity), and ensure all surgical and procedural equipment is sterilized.
• Maintain inventory of laboratory reagents, chemicals, and supplies needed for ongoing studies.

Skills

Rodent handling

Mammalian cell culture

PCR techniques

Western blotting

ELISA

Aseptic technique

In vivo models

Exosome isolation

SOP adherence

Data recording

Education

Biology degree

Animal science background

Biochemistry background

Tools

qRT-PCR

DNA extraction

Western blot

Job description

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is seeking a Laboratory Research Associate to support animal colony operations and routine bench work in a translational cancer research program.

You will balance animal welfare with cancer biology duties, including cell culture, molecular assays, and drug-response studies. The role spans in vivo and in vitro projects on exosome biology, cancer metabolism, and small-molecule discovery in breast cancer and AML.