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Biologist Project Scientist

Summary

Description

The Cell Biology and Imaging Laboratory has an opening for a Project Scientist to independently manage activities of the Principal Investigator’s projects, and to perform independent research consistent with the goals of the Principal Investigator’s research. The Principal Investigator’s projects consist primarily of biological, biochemical and biophysical studies of the extracellular matrix and its modulation during normal morphogenesis and cancerous transformation.

Responsibilities include:

Independent research on the role of the extracellular matrix and cellular microenvironment in cancer progression (50% time):
• Investigate factors affecting breast tumorigenicity, particularly those factors associated with the extracellular matrix and cellular microenvironment.
• Independently perform research utilizing 3-dimensional (3-D) cell culture assays, as well as biochemical and molecular biology techniques such as: electrophoresis, including, zymography, immunoblot, and 2D electrophoresis; immunofluorescence; PCR; knock-down of gene products using interfering RNA; and the cloning and expression of proteins as needed.
• Perform complex data analysis. Utilizing 3-D cell culture tumor models, assess breast tumor signaling pathways and therapeutics, both existing and novel.
• Ensure that research responsibilities are aligned and consistent with the goals of the Principal Investigator. Conduct research in coordination with research team members, within the lab or through collaborative agreements.

Project and Laboratory Management (50% time):
• Manage and oversee day-to day function of the laboratory and independently troubleshoot issues. Serve as primary contact with Facilities Department and Building Manager for necessary alterations/repairs.
• Administer Laboratory policies and procedures. Maintain compliance with laboratory regulations and ensure compliance with EH&S regulations. Interact with biosafety, chemical safety and division safety officers on behalf of the Primary Investigator.
• Act as supervisor of several Research Associates and Technical Staff. Delegate and oversee project work assignments and training for technical staff; interpret and translate job requirements into specific assignments. This includes initiating and recommending personnel actions such as hiring, training, promoting and disciplining. Conduct annual performance reviews for those supervised. Serve as point of contact for Human Resources representatives.
• Manage breast cell line resources. Function as liaison between PI and Proposals to help to manage submission of funding proposals to federal sponsors (i.e. NIH, DOE, DOD) on behalf of the Primary Investigator. Work with PI’s resource analyst to oversee and manage the Primary Investigator’s grants. Track budget and progress and draft annual reports as required by granting agencies. Generate progress reports as needed by the Primary Investigator.
• Provide guidance to laboratory postdoctoral fellows and graduate students. This includes training laboratory techniques, and assisting individuals in fellowship applications, including logistics, writing, and preparation of budgets.
• Oversee Primary Investigator’s collaborative activities. Manage both ongoing and prospective collaborations and report progress to the Primary Investigator.
• Coordinate subcontracts as needed. Serve as point of contact with external vendor representatives. Work with laboratory members to research new industry technologies and negotiate pricing agreements with vendors.

Qualifications:
• PhD in Biochemistry or related field and at least 5 years of combined related research and project management experience, or equivalent experience.
• Proven ability to conduct independent, productive research into the influence of extracellular matrix and cellular microenvironment on the cell and molecular biology of normal and malignant cells.
• Experience with managing multiple projects simultaneously and budget tracking.
• Proven ability and experience to facilitate constructive and productive team effort involving scientific and administrative support staff.
• Extensive experience in 3-D cell culture, microscopy, molecular biology and biochemistry techniques.
• Excellent organizational skills, as well as excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially as shown by a publication record and successful grant applications. Demonstrated ability as an independent problem solver, team member, and effective project manager to accomplish project goals.
• Demonstrated experience of basic computer software for data generation and record keeping such as MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint and Adobe Photoshop.

Notes:

This is a one-year Term appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent on satisfactory performance, the availability of work and funding. This is 80% part-time position.

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