"Research Assistant, Czyzyk-Krzeska Lab, College of Medicine, Department of Cancer Biology"

Job Overview

A Research Assistant position is available in the laboratory of Dr. M. Czyzyk-Krzeska in the Department of Cancer Biology at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. The laboratory investigates the molecular and metabolic mechanisms that drive renal cancer progression, using state-of-the-art molecular biology, biochemistry, cell culture, and animal model systems within a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment.

The Research Technician will support ongoing research by performing experimental procedures, maintaining cell cultures, assisting with animal studies, preparing reagents, organizing data, and contributing to the overall operation of the laboratory. The position provides excellent hands-on training in cutting-edge cancer biology, with direct mentorship from Dr. Czyzyk-Krzeska and close interaction with postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, clinical fellows, and undergraduate researchers. Previous technicians from the laboratory have successfully advanced to competitive MD or PhD programs or transitioned into strong positions in academia, biotechnology, and industry. This role is well suited for candidates who are detail-oriented, motivated, and enthusiastic about contributing to impactful research that advances the understanding and treatment of cancer.

Essential Functions

• Perform experiments using standard wet lab molecular techniques and record data according to research protocols and develop and maintain protocols.
• Interpret data and assist in judging validity of data. May perform statistical and graphical analysis of data.
• May assist in animal colony management and animal husbandry.
• Apply research principles for less complex assignments.
• Perform related duties based on departmental need. This job description can be changed at any time.

Required Education

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Four (4) years of relevant work experience and/or other specialized training can be used in lieu of education requirement.

Required Experience

Additional related work experience may be required depending on field or discipline.

Additional Qualifications Considered

Experience with Standard Wet Lab Molecular Techniques: DNA and RNA extraction and purification, PCR and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), Reverse transcription (cDNA synthesis), Gel electrophoresis (agarose and polyacrylamide), Western blotting and protein quantification (e.g., BCA assays), Immunoprecipitation and co-immunoprecipitation, Cloning, plasmid preparation, and bacterial transformation, Transfection and viral transduction (lentiviral/retroviral systems), Cell culture, including maintenance, passaging, and viability assays, Flow cytometry sample preparation and basic analysis, Microscopy (bright-field and fluorescence), ELISA and other immunoassays, RNA interference (siRNA/shRNA knockdown), Colony formation assays, Reporter gene assays (luciferase, GFP-based assays), Basic biochemistry techniques (protein extraction, purification, enzymatic assays).

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Sitting - Continuously
• Repetitive hand motion (such as typing) - Often
• Hearing, listening - Often
• Talking - Often
• Standing - Often
• Walking - Often
• Bending - Often
• Stooping - Often
• Lifting - up to 20 pounds - Often
• Kneeling, squatting - Seldom
• Noise: There is sufficient noise to cause you to shout in order to be heard above the noise level.
• Hazards: Includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts of machinery or tools used to perform work, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals.
• Atmospheric Conditions: Conditions that affect the respiratory system, such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, or poor ventilation.

Compensation and Benefits

UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. UC Benefits Link Highlights include:

Salary/Hourly Pay Rate Information:

Comprehensive Tuition Remission
UC provides tuition remission for you and your eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.

Robust Retirement Plans
As a UC employee, you won’t contribute to Social Security (except Medicare). Instead, you’ll choose between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP), with UC contributing 14–18% of your salary based on position.

Real Work-Life Balance
UC prioritizes work-life balance with a generous time-off policy, including:
Vacation and sick time
11 paid holidays and additional end-of-year paid time off (Winter Season Days)
6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents

Additional Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription)
• Flexible spending accounts & wellness programs
• Professional development & mentorship opportunities

To learn more about why UC is a great place to work, please visit our careers page at https://www.uc.edu/careers.html