About the position
The laboratory of Dr. MariCarmen Lafita-Navarro in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at the University of Virginia (UVA) School of Medicine is seeking to fill an exciting Postdoctoral Researcher position in the field of cancer biology. The Lafita-Navarro lab focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms and metabolic adaptations underlying the biology of cancer cells. One area of particular interest in the lab is glioblastoma. Glioblastoma is the most frequent and most aggressive cancer type of the brain which to date is still considered a deadly disease. A significant part of the Lafita-Navarro lab works towards revealing the vulnerabilities of glioblastoma cells with the ultimate goal of improving the treatment options and survival of glioblastoma patients. Motivated applicants interested in developing a research program in the field of cancer biology are welcomed to apply. Expertise in the fields of molecular biology, cell biology, and genetics are expected. Experienced with mice work is ideal.
Responsibilities
- Full-time research or scholarship at the University.
- Preparatory for a full-time academic or research career.
- Supervised by a senior scholar, and allows the appointee to publish the results of his/her research or scholarship.
- In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.
- Applicants with a record of productivity in peer-reviewed journals will be valued.
- This position requires the ability to work in a team and independent manner and maintain high standards of integrity and work ethics in the workplace.
- Postdoctoral researchers will continue to develop their research toolbox in the field of molecular biology as well as grow their scientific communication skills by writing scientific articles, presenting their work at UVA seminars and external conferences, and applying for funding opportunities.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or equivalent degree in molecular biology, cellular biology, or a related field.
Nice-to-haves
- Familiarity with cell culture techniques including culture of various cell types (cancer cells, stem cells, primary cells, organoids, neurospheres).
- Experience with cell cycle analysis, 2D/3D colony formation assays, siRNA/DNA transfections, lentiviral production and cell transduction, CRISPR engineering.
- In vivo experience with subcutaneous/orthotopic tumor xenografts experiments, brain stereotactic injections, mouse handling experience, mouse colony management, tissue collection and processing for molecular biology analysis.
- Molecular Biology techniques such as Western blot, Immunoprecipitation, Northern blot, PCR, RT-qPCR, ChIP, RNA-IP, Click-IT assays, Reporter assays, Polysome fractionation, DNA cloning.
- Cell Biology techniques including Immunofluorescence and Live cell imaging.
- Experience with screening assays like Next Generation Sequencing (RNAseq, ChIP-seq, single cell RNAseq, etc.), Proteomics, Metabolomics, Bioinformatics.
- Proficiency in software such as Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word), Image J/Fiji, EndNote.
Benefits
- Postdoctoral employment is temporary and is normally limited to an individual who has been awarded a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within the previous five years.
- The position is a 12-month appointment with the possibility of renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.
- Salary is commensurate with education and experience.
