Research Assistant: Cancer/Radiation Biology

NC State University; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 47,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in veterinary medicine is seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join their innovative team. This exciting role focuses on conducting laboratory-based experiments in cancer and radiation biology, utilizing advanced techniques such as cell culture, histology, and molecular biology. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with a dynamic team, mentor students, and contribute to groundbreaking research aimed at improving clinical management of pain in cancer treatment. If you are motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to make a difference in the field of veterinary and human medicine, this position offers a unique chance to advance your career in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in animal handling and molecular biology.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory experiments in radiation biology and oncology.
• Manage multiple projects and ensure timely completion.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Histology

Microscopy

Molecular biology techniques

Data analysis

Animal handling

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

Organization skills

Education

Undergraduate degree (B.S.)

Tools

Laboratory equipment

Microsoft Office

Job description

Research Assistant: Cancer/Radiation Biology

Please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for professional references.

Posting Information

Posting Number: PG193618EP

Working Title: Research Assistant: Cancer/Radiation Biology

Anticipated Hiring Range: $47,500 to $55,000

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8am – 5pm

Job Location: Dept of Clinical Sciences

About the Department: The Nolan lab is housed in the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at NC State University (Raleigh, North Carolina). Dr. Nolan runs an active research program primarily focused on the intersection of neurobiology and cancer/radiation biology. Our long-term goal is to identify novel targets for improved clinical management of pain that results from cancer treatment. We are also interested in understanding how pain signaling can influence the progression of cancer. To accomplish these goals, we utilize a combination of in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (rodent/mouse) models, as well as clinical trials in both veterinary and human cancer patients.

We are seeking a motivated individual to conduct research experiments in the fields of radiation biology, oncology, and comparative pain. The position is primarily focused on laboratory-based benchtop experiments and assays, with additional responsibilities in live animal work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Laboratory Work:
  • Conduct mammalian cell culture, histology, microscopy (including independent execution of immunohistochemistry and slide digitization), and molecular biology techniques (WB, ELISA, qRT-PCR, genotyping, transfection).
  • Analyze and prepare data, contributing to the interpretation of results and determining the next steps for ongoing projects.
  • Manage multiple concurrent projects, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Animal Work:
  • Perform basic mouse handling, behavioral testing, injections, and anesthesia.
  • Provide research support, including interaction with laboratory animal staff and ensuring adherence to animal care protocols.
  • Assist in the preparation of animal care and use protocols.
• Collaboration and Training:
  • Train and mentor undergraduate and graduate students, and collaborate with postdocs and other lab members on experimental procedures.
  • Interface with outside collaborators and clinical staff, particularly within our small animal veterinary hospital, with potential involvement in veterinary clinical trials.
• Documentation and Literature Review:
  • Maintain detailed records of all completed tasks and experimental procedures.
  • Stay informed on relevant literature and research developments, applying this knowledge to ongoing projects.
  • Manage the scheduling of laboratory procedures.

Other Responsibilities: The position will troubleshoot lab-based problems and will assume some responsibilities for the overall running of the lab, including training of laboratory staff and students. Up to 10-20% of the position’s time may be dedicated to laboratory management activities, which include ordering and maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment (e.g., inventory, purchasing, coordination with service engineers); updating laboratory safety plans; maintaining stock solutions; autoclaving, etc.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience: An undergraduate degree (e.g., B.S.) with 3 years of experience in animal handling and molecular biology.

Other Required Qualifications:

• Prior research experience including mammalian cell culture, basic histology and microscopy, and molecular biology techniques (WB, ELISA, qRT-PCR, genotyping, transfection).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills. Excellent organization skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines, goal-oriented, and high level of motivation.
• Ability to work individually and also as part of a team.
• Competency with Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel). Strong fine motor skills.
• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications: Prior rodent-based research experience (including mouse colony management {breeding, genotyping, etc.} and basic mouse handling, injections, and anesthesia).

Required License(s) or Certification(s): Valid NC Driver's License required.

Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions:

Job Open Date: 08/21/2024

Anticipated Close Date: N/A

Special Instructions to Applicants: Please include a cover letter, resume, and contact information for professional references.

Position Number: 00109245

Position Type: Exempt Professional Staff

Full Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0 (40 hours/week)

Appointment: 12 Month Recurring

Department ID: 195001 - Department of Clinical Sciences

AA/EEO: NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at [phone] or [e-mail].

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.