Research Scientist PhD

Children's Mercy KC • Kansas City, MO

2d • $71,781 • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Scientist will conduct high-impact basic and translational research focused on cancer biology and therapeutics in the Yong Li Lab within the Center for Molecular Oncology and Cellular Therapeutics at CMRI. The lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying cancer initiation, progression, and therapeutic response, with the aim of translating findings into treatments for pediatric patients and others. Research areas include oncogenic drivers, oncogenic signaling, protein stability, and immune evasion. The lab integrates biochemistry, molecular genetics, and immunology to develop therapeutic strategies such as monoclonal antibodies, DNA vaccines, and targeted protein degraders, and uses artificial intelligence alongside experimental validation to study cancer biology and develop treatments for pediatric cancers.

The role combines fundamental discovery and clinical translation, including targeting previously undruggable oncoproteins and harnessing the immune system to improve cancer treatment outcomes. The Research Scientist works under the supervision of the principal investigator while carrying independent responsibilities in experimentation, scientific troubleshooting, grant writing, manuscript preparation, and poster presentations.

The position is onsite and is not eligible for remote work. The starting pay range begins at $34.51 per hour; the offer depends on education and experience. Seasonal influenza vaccination is a condition of employment. New employees must be willing to receive specified vaccinations if non-immune or unable to provide evidence of vaccination, subject to medical or religious exemptions discussed with Human Resources.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or M.D.
• 3–5 years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original laboratory research in cancer biology and therapeutic development, focusing on identifying novel therapeutic targets and developing first-in-class treatments.
• Analyze and report research results.
• Write manuscripts.
• Write grant proposals.
• Conduct experiments and troubleshoot scientific challenges.
• Prepare poster presentations.

What This Job Offers

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