Research Assistant Professor

George Mason University; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A public research university seeks a Research Assistant Professor to join a multidisciplinary team focused on advancing cancer biology research. The role involves independent research, mentoring students, and teaching courses while contributing to project coordination and grant proposals. Candidates must have a PhD in a related field and significant laboratory experience in cancer research. Opportunities for professional growth are encouraged, with a rich environment for intellectual collaboration.

Qualifications

• Terminal degree (PhD) in a related field.
• Three years of post-PhD research experience.
• Hands-on laboratory experience in cancer research.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research focused on cancer pathophysiology.
• Develop and submit grant proposals and contracts.
• Mentor and supervise trainees across all levels.

Skills

Hands-on laboratory experience in cancer research

Strong organizational and logistical coordination skills

Effective written and verbal communication skills for research

Basic knowledge of cancer biology and molecular/cellular techniques

Education

PhD in a related field

Tools

Word processing and spreadsheet software

Job description

Employment Details

Department: College of Science

Classification: 12-month Research Faculty

Job Category: Research Faculty

Job Type: Full-Time

Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)

Location: Prince William County, VA

Workplace Type: On Site Required

Sponsorship Eligibility: Not eligible for visa sponsorship

Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience

Restricted: Yes

Criminal Background Check: Yes

Works with Minors Check: Yes

About the Department

The Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine (CAPMM) is part of the School of Systems Biology/College of Science at George Mason University. CAPMM focuses on developing and implementing cutting‑edge protein analysis technologies to advance the field of proteomics and address disease biology. The Center’s primary emphasis is on cancer, while also applying new technologies to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, liver, ocular, neurodegenerative, and infectious diseases.

George Mason University College of Science is committed to inclusive excellence and fostering an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation throughout its STEM community.

About the Position

The Research Assistant Professor will primarily conduct research as part of a multidisciplinary team, working closely with the Principal Investigator to advance discoveries in disease biology and translate them into clinical applications. Responsibilities include performing a range of molecular and cellular laboratory techniques, contributing to data analysis in collaboration with data scientists, and supporting laboratory operations and project coordination. The position also involves teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, leading student training and mentorship, and supporting technology transfer activities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research focused on mechanisms of cancer pathophysiology and progression, emphasizing cell‑cell communication mediated by vesicle trafficking.
• Develop and submit grant proposals, contracts, patent applications, and commercial partnership requests.
• Mentor and supervise trainees across all levels.
• Apply bioengineering principles to cancer biology research.
• Collaborate with scientists and clinicians both within the unit and at external institutions.
• Publish peer‑reviewed manuscripts in high‑impact journals.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Ensure compliance with IHS, IACUC, IRB, CAP, and NIH guidelines.
• Direct cancer tissue profiling within clinical trials.
• Contribute to strategic planning, laboratory management, and technological innovation.
• Serve as the liaison between CAPMM and the Office of Technology Transfer.
• Provide training on invention disclosure, patent filing, and USPTO interactions.
• Integrate intellectual property education into STEM curriculum.
• Lead project planning for instructional programs.
• Develop project‑based learning modules using emerging technologies.
• Ensure continuous improvement of online instructional tools and virtual teaching strategies.
• Teach pathways for entrepreneurship and technology commercialization.
• Engage students in discussions of the societal and industry impacts of innovation.
• Support a culture of creativity, innovation, and scientific curiosity.

Required Qualifications

• Terminal degree (PhD) in a related field.
• Three years of post‑PhD research experience in the area at the time of appointment.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience in cancer research.
• Proficiency with word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Willingness to work at BSL‑2.
• Basic knowledge of cancer biology and molecular/cellular techniques.
• Understanding of laboratory safety, biosafety practices, and research ethics.
• Familiarity with IRB, IACUC, NIH regulations and responsible conduct of research.
• Ability to perform standard laboratory procedures and follow protocols.
• Strong organizational and logistical coordination skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for research.
• Competence with basic data entry, record‑keeping, and common software applications.
• Ability to learn new scientific concepts, techniques, and instructional technologies quickly.
• Ability to communicate scientific information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary units and external constituents.
• Demonstrated interest in cancer research.

Preferred Qualifications

• Track record of authoring high‑impact research publications as first or corresponding author.
• Clinical research experience.
• Track record of achieved patents and participation in licensing negotiations.
• Extensive experience in cancer immunotherapy, solid tumors, tumor microenvironment, cell‑cell communication, mitochondrial function, extracellular vesicles, and lymphatic biology.
• Animal model experience.
• Documented success in securing research grant funding as a principal investigator.
• Experience with academic technology transfer and STEM instruction.
• Knowledge of proteomics and cell‑cell communication applied to cancer.