Description

Job Description

JOB OVERVIEW

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced scientist to join the Precancer Genomics Lab. The candidate will be responsible for conducting and supporting research in gastrointestinal carcinogenesis pathways utilizing human biospecimens and preclinical models. The candidate should have experience in molecular and cellular biology lab techniques, including mouse handling and experimental procedures, human tissue processing, and histological analyses. The ideal candidate will have strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.

This position requires a doctoral degree in a related field and a minimum of 3 years of hands-on research experience in a laboratory setting. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular and/or cell biology.

ABOUT THE LABORATORY

Our work combines molecular biology techniques with human-based and in vivo mouse models to answer fundamental questions of carcinogenesis with the ultimate goal of informing novel therapeutic strategies and developing methods for early detection and cancer prevention. As part of this bench-to-bedside lab, you'll contribute to translational research with exciting clinical implications for patients with cancer.

The Precancer Genomics Lab, located in the MSTF Building at The University of Maryland School of Medicine, investigates the genomic landscape of precancerous cells and their microenvironment, seeking to identify vulnerabilities and unlock strategies for cancer interception. The goals of the lab are to improve early cancer detection and establish cancer prevention strategies for upper gastrointestinal cancers, including stomach, pancreas, and bile ducts.

Led by Dr. Jeremy Davis, Professor and Chief of Surgical Oncology, the laboratory has substantial experience using multi-omics analyses to investigate the genetic, molecular, and immunological mechanisms underlying sporadic and inherited forms of stomach cancer, specifically those caused by germline mutations in the CDH1 gene.

PRIMARY DUTIES

• Perform independent projects and participate in the design of research studies.
• Process and analyze human tissue specimens, including preservation, sectioning, and downstream molecular assays.
• Independently perform and troubleshoot laboratory research activities such as: nucleic acid extraction, PCR, qPCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, microscopy, and preparation of samples for genomic sequencing.
• Administer day-to-day laboratory operations including monitoring the budget, ensuring quality control and safety compliance, developing policies and procedures, and ordering supplies.
• Maintain proper operation of research equipment, ensuring proper operation records, cleaning, ordering of required components and explaining/resolving technical issues.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret research data using various relevant computer software applications.
• Conduct library research and participates in editing and preparing grant proposals, manuscripts, scientific illustrations and computer graphics for publication.
• Assist in the training of undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral, international fellows, and/or junior technical personnel in the performance of a variety of laboratory techniques.
• Assist in the maintenance of mouse colonies including: breeding colonization processes; daily observations of animal health; collection of biological specimens for diagnostic testing; conduction of surgical and non-surgical animal experiments.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working with human tissue specimens, including processing, storage, and ethical handling.
• Strong background in molecular biology techniques, such as DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, PCR, gel electrophoresis.
• Familiarity with histological techniques, including tissue embedding, sectioning, staining, and slide analysis.
• Working knowledge of genomics (e.g., library prep, sequencing workflows, basic bioinformatics a plus).
• Familiarity in immunology-related assays, such as flow cytometry, ELISA, or cytokine profiling.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and work independently on multiple projects.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements for working with animals and human samples (IACUC/IRB protocols).
• Assist in the maintenance of mouse colonies including: breeding colonization processes; daily observations of animal health; collection of biological specimens for diagnostic testing; conduction of surgical and non-surgical animal experiments.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills; ability to function in a collaborative team environment.