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

Job Overview

A Research Fellow/Research Associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. M. Czyzyk-Krzeska in the Department of Cancer Biology to investigate the molecular mechanisms driving renal cancer progression. This role offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge biomedical research with the goal of publishing in top-tier scientific journals, and past employees in similar positions have successfully used this experience as a springboard to competitive MD or PhD programs at leading institutions or to high-level positions in industry. The selected candidate will work closely with and receive direct mentorship from Dr. Czyzyk-Krzeska and collaborate with a dynamic team of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, clinical fellows, and undergraduate researchers, gaining hands-on training in a highly supportive and rigorous scientific environment.

Essential Functions

Perform experiments that include, but are not limited to:

• Western blot analysis, RNA isolation, PCR, tissue culture, mouse genotyping, immunohistochemistry, molecular cloning, and mouse dissection followed by tissue processing and histological analysis.
• Laboratory organization, including ordering, and ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

Required Education

• B.A or B.S in relevant fields such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, biophysics, etc.

Required Experience

• Expertise in mice handling and proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe (Photoshop, Illustrator).
• Previous independent laboratory experience outside of required undergraduate courses.

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
• Kneeling, squatting - Seldom
• Kneeling, squatting - Often
• 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.

Additional Qualifications Considered

• A GPA of B or higher in undergraduate program.

Compensation and Benefits

UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. UC Benefits Eligibility may vary by position and FTE status. 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