Research Opportunities (Mechanistic Cancer Research) - Molecular Oncology

Position Summary

Job Description

Cancer is a heterogeneous disease driven by various genomic, epigenomic, and proteomic abnormalities. Though conceptually straightforward, targeting cancer-specific abnormalities proves practically challenging due to the complexity of the cellular functions of many potential cancer targets. The main interest of the lab is unravelling the biology of cancer-relevant cellular proteins with poorly understood mechanisms with the overarching goal of developing novel and more effective therapies. Currently, we are focusing on two multifunctional proteins, the actin-binding protein Profilin-1 and the AAA+ ATPase p97/VCP. Both are essential proteins with well-known functions in the cytoplasm, but play important yet poorly understood roles in the nucleus. Our recent work (Cell Rep, 2020; Cell Rep, 2021; Cancers 2021; Front Cell Dev Biol, 2021) linked nuclear Profilin-1 and p97/VCP to fundamental cellular processes such as transcription and DNA damage response, defined their regulatory mechanisms by nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and phosphorylation, and more importantly uncovered their clinical relevance to cancer progression and therapy resistance. It is our ultimate goal that mechanistic insights from these studies can reveal hidden “Achilles heels” of cancer cells, and guide the development of personalized treatments. Various standard and specialized molecular, cellular, and animal experiments are performed in the lab such as cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, Western blot, immunoprecipitation, PCR, cloning, mouse xenografts, DNA fiber, and proximity ligation assays.

For more information about the lab, please visit the following websites:

• http://www.shaolab.org  
• https://oncology.wustl.edu/people/faculty/Shao/Shao_Bio.html
• https://siteman.wustl.edu/research/center-for-genome-integrity/cgi-members/jieya-shao-phd/

Work in the lab includes assistance with experimental design, execution, and interpretation of lab studies independently or via supervision by the PI and/or postdoctoral fellows.  It also includes general lab maintenance such as purchasing, preparing buffers and reagents, autoclaving, documenting lab safety and experimental protocols.

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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, genetics, or related field is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in basic or translational lab settings.
• Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with others.
• Ability to perform, trouble shoot, and analyze experimental data.
• Excellent record keeping and organizational skills.
• Effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated abilities with the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Effective organization skills and ability to prioritize workload.

Required Qualifications

Candidates with prior experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and/or cell biology with at least a bachelor’s degree are encouraged to apply.

Grade
G00

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

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