Postdoctoral Research Associate, Department of Basic Medical Sciences (College of Medicine-Phoenix)

The University of Arizona • Phoenix, AZ

2d

About The Position

The Lab of Dr. Nicole Halmai in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences at the University of Arizona College of Medicine–Phoenix seeks a motivated researcher to join its functional genomics and cancer genomic medicine research team. The role focuses on establishing, characterizing, and manipulating 3D cell cultures (patient-derived organoid lines) from human tumor biopsies to identify clinically relevant molecular subtypes, drug targets, and biomarkers that can improve cancer treatment and precision medicine, with the ultimate goal of addressing cancer health disparities.

The successful candidate will conduct advanced multidisciplinary cancer genomics research under the direction of the principal investigator, develop and lead complex research projects, and contribute to collaborations, publications, grant applications, and laboratory operations. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, and is eligible for visa sponsorship.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Genetics/Genomics, Molecular/Cellular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, or a related field of study.
• Research experience in at least one of the following areas: molecular biology, genomics, or primary cell culture.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Excellent laboratory and analytical skills and commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.
• Knowledge of statistics, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Ability to communicate professionally and clearly, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of grant writing and manuscript preparation.
• Proficiency with imaging or data analysis software.

Nice To Haves

• Track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Interest in cancer genomic medicine and cancer health disparities.
• Experience in primary cell culture or functional genomics.
• CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing experience.
• Cancer genomic medicine or functional genomics research experience.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain cancer 3D organoid lines derived from patient tumor and normal biopsies.
• Perform molecular and cellular assays to characterize organoid lines.
• Conduct CRISPR/Cas9 editing experiments, including CRISPR screens, to functionally characterize cancer-associated genomic alterations.
• Perform targeted inhibitor screens to detect therapeutic vulnerabilities in organoid lines.
• Conduct advanced, multidisciplinary cancer genomics research under the direction of the principal investigator, Dr. Halmai.
• Develop, design, and conduct complex research projects.
• Formulate research methods, develop research criteria, and collect and analyze scientific data using independent judgment.
• Foster collaborations within the Department and with other University units.
• Present results at laboratory meetings and conferences.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in grant writing, including generating preliminary data, submitting grant applications, and preparing progress reports.
• Develop and implement protocols based on experimental results.
• Assist with supervision of laboratory staff.
• Contribute to daily laboratory operations.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid vacation
• Sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members at the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University
• Access to University of Arizona recreation and cultural activities
• Work-life programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree