Postdoctoral Research Associate - Pediatrics Hematology & Oncology

Position Summary

In the Brossier lab, we are interested in identifying which factors (genetic, neurodevelopmental, environmental) increase the rate of tumorigenesis following oncogenic mutation in the brain and the molecular basis underlying this effect, with an eye towards using this information for patient risk assessment and to identify new targets for therapeutic intervention. We utilize animal models of sporadic low-grade glioma and Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1)-related optic pathway glioma to accomplish these goals. We are additionally interested in how environmental exposures affect the non-tumor manifestations of NF1, particularly in regards to cognition. Projects in the lab revolve around three major themes: (1) how neurodevelopmental factors (cell type, brain region, age) affect response to sporadic oncogenic mutation, (2) how environmental factors modulate the effects of mutation on the cell of origin and tumor penetrance, and (3) how environmental factors affect neurodevelopment in relevant to cognition in NF1.

An ideal candidate for this position will have a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in biological sciences or related fields, as well as experience in mouse handling, primary cell culture, immunohistochemistry and molecular biology techniques. Programming skills are desired but not required. Applicants must have good spoken and written communication skills. Trainees will gain experience in mouse models of pediatric brain tumors, neural stem cell biology, neurodevelopment and translational research.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Manages their own project, which should lead to a first author publication.
• Develops proficiency in their chosen scientific discipline/field.
• Develops proficiency in their technical skills.
• Develops proficiency in their ancillary skills, e.g., writing, public speaking, networking, critical evaluation of scientific documents, etc.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside the University.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers on research.
• Assists in the design of research experiments.
• Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
• Conscientious discharge of their research responsibilities.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Engages in open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

Working Conditions:

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range:

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications

Education: Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree.

More About This Job

At WashU, postdoctoral appointments have a 5-year term limit that includes previous experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Skills: Collaboration, Data Analysis, Data Interpretations, Experimentation, Laboratory Operations, Laboratory Techniques, Researching, Results Reporting, Scientific Writing