Asst Research Scientist/Engin - Li Lab

UIOWA•Iowa City, IA

15h

About The Position

The Department of Pathology is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist to investigate how A-FABP and E-FABP regulate cell metabolism and intracellular signaling pathways in cells from disease models, including obesity, cancer, and psoriasis. The role involves designing and conducting assigned research projects and obtaining high-quality data for each study. It also includes managing laboratory protocols and training and collaborating with laboratory personnel, including students, postdoctoral fellows, and technicians. The position is 100% time. Duties include cell culture for cell lines and primary immune cells such as BMDCs and BMDMs; establishing stable gene-expression or knockout cell lines using CRISPR; preparing single-cell suspensions from tissues; performing real-time PCR, western blotting, RNAi, antibody generation and purification, ELISA, immunofluorescence staining, and multicolor flow cytometry; maintaining mouse colonies and conducting genotyping with technician assistance; and troubleshooting and updating experimental procedures. The Department of Pathology is part of UI Health Care, a comprehensive health sciences center serving Iowa, the region, and patients referred from across the United States and overseas. The department provides clinical laboratory services and participates in educational programs for medical students, clinical laboratory scientists, and biomedical scientists. Applicants must upload a resume and cover letter and mark each as a “Relevant File” to be considered for an interview. Successful candidates will be subject to criminal background and credential/education verification checks. Up to five professional references may be requested later in the recruitment process.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Immunology or a related field.
At least 1 year of postdoctoral experience in Immunology or a cancer-related field.
Demonstrated ability to independently design, optimize, and perform experiments and establish experimental protocols to address scientific questions.
Evidence of a publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
Experience establishing a national presence through talks, abstract presentations, and/or participation in professional meetings.
Excellent communication skills and a positive, collaborative approach to teamwork.

Nice To Haves

At least 3 years of postdoctoral experience in Immunology or a cancer-related field.
Experience developing mouse models involving a high-fat diet or tumor implantation, and compliance with IACUC regulations.
Strong multicolor flow cytometry skills for identifying immune cells, including T cells and macrophages.
Strong skills in standard molecular biological and immunological techniques.

Responsibilities

Design and perform assigned research projects and obtain high-quality data.
Investigate how A-FABP and E-FABP regulate cell metabolism and intracellular signaling pathways in disease models, including obesity, cancer, and psoriasis.
Manage laboratory protocols and train and collaborate with students, postdoctoral fellows, technicians, and other laboratory personnel.
Culture cell lines and primary immune cells, including BMDCs and BMDMs.
Establish cell lines with stable gene expression or knockouts using CRISPR.
Prepare single-cell suspensions from tissues.
Perform real-time PCR, western blotting, and RNAi.
Generate, isolate, and purify antibodies.
Perform ELISA using serum and supernatant.
Perform immunofluorescence staining using cells and tissues.
Maintain mouse colonies and conduct genotyping with technician assistance.
Prepare, perform, and analyze samples using multicolor flow cytometry.
Troubleshoot experimental procedures and update them as needed.