"Research Associate II"

Position Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Research Associate II within the Rutgers Cancer Institute-Radiation Oncology-Cancer Biology department. Housed in the newly constructed Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center, and part of the Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick, the Contessa lab leverages cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, animal modeling, and bioinformatics to advance target and drug discovery in oncology and to understand mechanisms of therapeutic resistance.

Under the direction of the Department Chair, the Research Associate II will conduct highly specialized and technical laboratory research as well as assist with budgetary, training, and administrative responsibilities. The Research Associate II may also oversee the work of graduate and undergraduate students, along with early-career professionals, and will be responsible for the completion and reporting of experimental research.

Experience with CRISPR-Cas9 genetic screening, including library preparation, cell culture and/or tumor monitoring, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis is highly valued for this position.

Key Duties

• Performs various research and clinical technical operations relative to ongoing investigatory activities of a laboratory; may conduct independently or as assigned specialized research for a particular project. Incumbent will assist in and conduct independent research in the area understanding mechanisms of therapeutic resistance. DNA damage response and genetic disposition of cancer under the direction of the principal investigator and will be expected to manage portions of specialized research for a particular project.
• Participates in the development of performance standards, selection of methodology and instrumentation and coordination of the analytical, biochemical, physiology and instrumentation functions with the clinical and research areas to ensure conformance with the goals and objectives of the department.
• Under supervision, assists in the conducting of continuous program of research and development regarding the analytical and instrumentation functions of the laboratory, participates in the evaluation of the existing procedures, suggesting revision where necessary and proposing new procedures where required. May assist in organizing, leading and conducting highly specialized research activity for a particular research project. Directs the maintenance of essential records and files as assigned by PI.
• As requested, assists in the implementation of the programs and projects in special areas of interest to the department. Maybe responsible for training research technicians, graduate students, and/or postdoctoral fellows. Expected to direct day-to-day operations to facilitate instruction and training of students, fellows, technicians, and laboratory assistants as required.
• Write grant applications annual progress reports and manuscripts Reviews and analyzes scientific data, scientific reports, publications and other documents pertaining to current research developments. Must possess effective oral and written communication skills and ability to publish scientific research papers/articles. Gives oral presentations of the research at lab meetings and conferences. Functions as scientific consultant in areas pertaining to specific expertise.

Minimum Education and Experience

PhD or equivalent degree in medical sciences required, or a Master's Degree in a relevant science plus three (3) years of related research experience required.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Standing, sitting, walking, talking and hearing. No special vision requirements. Lifting up to 25 lbs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Lab environment. Moderate noise. Exposure to blood, excrement, antineoplastic drugs and possible exposure to infectious and communicable diseases. Universal precautions are mandatory. Exposure to hazardous chemicals.

About Rutgers University

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national public research university and the state's preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. Rutgers is dedicated to teaching that meets the highest standards of excellence; to conducting research that breaks new ground; and to turning knowledge into solutions for local, national, and global communities. As it was at our founding in 1766, the heart of our mission is preparing students to become productive members of society and good citizens of the world. Rutgers teaches across the full educational spectrum: preschool to precollege; undergraduate to graduate and postdoctoral; and continuing education for professional and personal advancement. Rutgers is New Jersey's land-grant institution and one of the nation's foremost research universities, and as such, we educate, make discoveries, serve as an engine of economic growth, and generate ideas for improving people's lives.