Research TechnicianUniversity of Pittsburgh

A Research Technician position is available starting immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Jing H. Wang at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. The research focus of the laboratory is to understand the mechanism of immune evasion in head and neck cancers and to develop novel therapeutic strategies to treat cancers. In addition, we are interested in elucidating how DNA recombination processes contribute to genomic instability and tumorigenesis in B cells by utilizing cutting-edge sequencing technology and novel genetically modified mouse models.

The research technician will be responsible for lab maintenance including preparation of lab solutions, keeping lab inventory, equipment maintenance, ordering of lab supplies, and other support for lab personnel as needed. Maintaining lab mouse colonies by managing breeding cages, genotyping, and weaning. Making lab reagents to study tumor-infiltrating immune cells and carcinogenesis mechanisms. Major techniques used: PCR, DNA isolation, flow cytometry, cell culture. Be willing to work occasionally with flexible hours. Conducting immunological, molecular, and cellular biological experiments to study phenotypic changes in immune cells or cancer cells. Major experiments include cell proliferation assays, flow cytometry, primary immune cell isolation, western blotting, recombinant virus infection assays, as well as data collection, and record keeping.

Must be able to work with the Principal Investigator (PI) in learning and training on how to design and document experiments. Must follow procedures without deviation. Must be able to achieve reliable cell culture and use good practices at all times. Must use good practices in basic molecular biology, immunology, keep precise records, and consistently generate high quality data. Tabulate research data and keep a detailed, easy to understand laboratory notebook, and accurately collect and maintain up-to-date records of experimental data. Present data and journal articles in a laboratory meeting setting. Analyze experimental results and prepare data for publication in peer-reviewed journals and for presentation at scientific meetings.

The successful candidate will participate in the initiation and execution of the research projects and help maintain the operation of the laboratory. Applicants should receive a BS degree in biology or related field. Experience and background in molecular biology, cellular immunology and animal models are highly desired. Be familiar with molecular cloning techniques, molecular biology experimental procedures, and cell culture in addition to basic knowledge about chemistry, which is essential to make basic lab solutions. In addition, the applicant should be self-motivated and able to work independently and as a team member in a group.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Must be organized to monitor laboratory equipment, devices, and reagents regularly and must maintain the laboratory operation by arranging repair service of equipment/devices and purchasing supplies and reagents on time.

Moderate physical effort required. May be required to stand/move for several hours at a time. May be required to move objects up to 50 pounds with or without assistance of equipment.