Research Scientist - Dept. Of Human And Molecular Genetics

Virginia Commonwealth University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action university providing access to education and employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, political affiliation, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or disability.

Position Summary:

We are seeking applications from highly motivated Research Scientists to join the Department of Human Genetics at Virginia Commonwealth University. Our lab's research focus is on developing novel genetic and pharmaceutical tools, including but not limited to cell and gene therapy, small molecules, and biologics for solid tumors. Research programs are also directed to understand the molecular underpinnings of cancer initiation and progression, which serves as the basis of current and future drug discovery initiatives. The Research Scientist will be responsible for developing, conducting and supervising research experiments in the above research themes and overseeing administrative activities of the lab in conjunction with the Principal Investigator.

Core Responsibilities:

• Carefully collect and analyze data from our lab's experiments and from studies of our collaborators

• Coordinate and schedule animal usage and testing throughout the laboratory group, ensuring all comply with established SOPs, laboratory guidelines and sponsor requirements

• Ensure timely ordering of laboratory chemical and supply inventories by personnel

• Implement improvements in any aspect of the research undertaken in the group

• Update laboratory equipment control software, as releases become available, and ensure devices are functioning properly

• Provide technical training of technicians, graduate and undergraduate students, and postdoctoral fellows in laboratory methods and proper use of laboratory equipment

• Provide input in this regard to supervisor as personnel evaluations are conducted

• Ensure integrity of testing and compliance with university and external regulatory offices (IACUC, IRB, OEHS,DEA, etc.)

• Serve as contact person for university compliance offices and prepare all materials and site for inspections

• Assist PI with writing and editing initial drafts of manuscripts for publication in scientific journals

• Work on independent research projects with direction and assistance of the PI

• Keep abreast of historical and current scientific literature pertinent to the laboratory's activities

• Present new findings at regularly scheduled laboratory meetings

• Maintain bibliographic databases, for reference and use in reports and publications

Minimum Hiring Standards:

• Must possess at least a master's degree in a biomedical or related science field. Ph.D.-levels scientists are encouraged to apply

• Knowledge of the appropriate scientific literature, laboratory procedures and practices involved in conducting biochemical, molecular and whole animal research

• Must possess documented medical writing and composition skills, resulting in published scientific reports and manuscripts

• Experience handling laboratory animals and small animal surgical skills are essential

• Required is competency with statistical and graphing software

• Must have a demonstrated commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in past experiences or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in a biomedical science or in neuroscience with strong background in biochemical and molecular methodologies (e.g. cloning, developing CAR NK/T cells)
• Documented managerial skills appropriate for coordinating and managing multiple studies simultaneously

The School of Medicine continuously strives for our workplace and learning environment to reflect the demographic and social milieu of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

This is a restricted position with no set end date and continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

University Job Code: 33241

ORP Eligible: Yes

VCU is committed to hiring veterans! VCU will include a veteran's period(s) of military service in the calculation of their annual leave accrual rate. This may provide veterans with an increased leave accrual!