(Temporary) Research Assistant - Department of Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology

West Virginia University • WV

85d

About The Position

The Liu Laboratory, led by Dr. Tracy Liu, investigates tumor–immune interactions that drive cancer progression, treatment resistance, and therapeutic response using advanced imaging and immunological approaches. We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to contribute to studies defining how myeloperoxidase (MPO) regulates pancreatic cancer progression and treatment resistance. The ideal candidate will be scientifically curious, detail-oriented, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment. The candidate should possess strong organizational and communication skills, as well as experience performing complex in vivo and ex vivo experiments. This position involves daily interaction with the PI and lab members to design and execute experiments focused on orthotopic pancreatic tumor models, tumor immunology, and high-resolution in vivo imaging. The successful candidate will contribute to mechanistic studies of MPO using mouse models, immune profiling, and intravital microscopy.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Immunology, Cancer Biology, or a related field (Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis preferred).
• A minimum of 0-6 months of laboratory research experience.
• Demonstrated experience with mouse models of pancreatic cancer, flow cytometry, immunological assays, and microscopy.
• Familiarity with in vivo imaging techniques and immune cell isolation is essential.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Ability to plan, execute, and troubleshoot experiments independently.
• Willingness and ability to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving project needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively within a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for documentation and data presentation.

Responsibilities

• Design, perform, and maintain records of experiments using orthotopic pancreatic tumor murine models.
• Conduct flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, in vivo imaging, and immunological assays to assess tumor–immune interactions.
• Perform and analyze pancreas window chamber intravital imaging studies.
• Isolate and characterize immune cell populations for functional and mechanistic assays.
• Evaluate myeloperoxidase activity in vivo and ex vivo, including biochemical and imaging-based readouts.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data; contribute to manuscript and presentation preparation.
• Work collaboratively with other team members and maintain an organized, safe laboratory environment.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Master's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees