Postdoctoral Research Associate - Oncology

Job Description

Position Summary

A Postdoctoral Research Associate position is open in Dr. Miriam Kim’s Lab in the Department of Medicine, Division of Oncology, Center for Gene and Cellular Immunotherapy at Washington University School of Medicine. Our lab works at the interface of immune cells within the hematopoietic system with the goal of mobilizing these to safely and effectively attack cancer. We use a variety of techniques including in vitro cell culture, primary human and mouse immune cell isolation, lentiviral and retroviral gene transfer, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, a variety of in vivo mouse models, and single-cell genomics to investigate the interactions of T cells and their immune environment. We ultimately aim to enhance long-term survival for human patients using cell and gene therapy approaches.

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher interested in working on genetically modified hematopoietic stem cells and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells for treatment of hematologic malignancies. The postdoctoral researcher will work with human and mouse hematopoietic stem cells to investigate how to best utilize these in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and CAR T cell therapy. The candidate will have the opportunity to engage in research across a broad range of fields including stem cell biology, immunology, cancer biology, and cell and gene therapy according to their interests.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/.

Primary Duties And Responsibilities

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

Manages their own project, which should lead to a first author publication.Develops expertise in flow cytometry, genetic manipulation of mouse and human immune cells, in vitro cytotoxicity assays, and in vivo mouse models.Develops proficiency in career skills, including writing, presenting, networking, and critical evaluation of scientific literature.Presents scientific work both inside and outside the University.Assists with grant preparation and reporting.Prepares and submits papers.Designs research experiments and collects data.Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.

Required Qualifications

Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent in biomedical sciences.

Preferred Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have research experience in cancer biology and/or immunology, flow cytometry, and mouse models. Candidates trained in other research fields who feel their experience is translatable to our studies are also encouraged to apply. All applicants should have good spoken and written communication skills.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

Interested applicants should send 1) a one-page cover letter briefly describing their previous research experience and future career goals, 2) a curriculum vitae, and 3) contact information of 2-3 references to Dr. Miriam Kim (miriamykim@wustl.edu).

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.

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

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA 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.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse 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.