Research Assistant, Basic Science - Department of Oncology

Wayne State University•Detroit, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Wayne State University is seeking a Research Assistant, Basic Science, in the Department of Oncology at its Detroit campus. The role performs laboratory-based scientific techniques and research, supporting studies of small-molecule anticancer drug activity, biomarkers, and rational drug combinations. The assistant conducts experiments and assays, maintains tissue cultures, participates in planning animal experiments, and helps implement research objectives in compliance with applicable legal, regulatory, and protocol requirements. The position also supports daily laboratory operations, including coordinating and organizing supplies, maintaining inventory and equipment, and keeping work areas clean and organized. It involves collecting and analyzing research data, communicating progress to the principal investigator and postdoctoral scholars or fellows, and assisting with data interpretation, manuscript writing, and preparation of conference presentations and scholarly publications. The typical work environment may include a laboratory and/or office. Non-standard hours, including evenings and weekends, may be required, and travel to scientific conferences may be required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related field of study is preferred.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to analyze, summarize, and interpret research findings and data in reports and spreadsheets, and communicate results.
Knowledge of scientific integrity principles.
Excellent time-management and organizational skills.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work collaboratively.
Microsoft Office software skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience performing basic research techniques or interacting with human subjects.
Master’s degree in cell or molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, or another appropriate discipline.
At least three years of laboratory experience with a strong background in molecular biology.
Comprehensive knowledge of tumor biology, molecular oncology, and cellular genetics.
Experience with molecular and cellular assays, including proliferation/apoptosis, RT-PCR, ELISA, western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, gene transfection, RNAi, and reporter assays.
Ability to communicate effectively with faculty, staff, and collaborators.
Ability to interpret and summarize scientific data clearly, concisely, and accurately.
Ability to efficiently manage and prioritize multiple projects.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

Perform laboratory-based scientific techniques and research.
Design and conduct experiments, including assays to investigate biomarkers of anticancer drug activity and rational drug combinations.
Recruit study participants by developing surveys and interviewing candidates, as applicable to research projects.
Help implement research objectives and ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and protocol guidelines.
Assist staff with experiments and research protocols.
Communicate research status to the principal investigator and postdoctoral scholars or fellows.
Collect and log laboratory results, clinical outcomes, and/or survey data.
Analyze and evaluate data, using graphs, charts, or tables to highlight findings in accordance with research protocols.
Proofread and edit research data and documents for accuracy.
Assist the principal investigator with writing methods and organizing and summarizing data for presentations and peer-reviewed publications.
Maintain laboratory work areas and perform routine laboratory equipment maintenance.
Order and organize research supplies and records; coordinate receipt of supplies and maintain inventory.
Maintain tissue cultures required for experiments.
Conduct western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence staining, and RT-PCR analysis of tissue or cell samples.
Organize and implement routine protocols for tissue culture, cytotoxicity or proliferation assays, molecular biology, and immunology; learn and introduce new methods.
Participate in planning animal experiments.
Participate in data analysis, interpretation, and manuscript writing.
Perform other related duties as assigned.