Research Scientist

The staff Research Scientist will work full-time (40 hours per week) in the Littlepage Research Lab.

The successful candidate will work closely with the lab head, both to do a research project as well as to help continue to support our well-organized, welcoming lab environment. The candidate needs to have experience working with mice or a related expertise.

The candidate will do research that will focus on understanding the mechanisms of progression and treatment of breast cancer metastasized to bone. The ideal candidate should have a Ph.D. or otherwise exceptional training, should be able and willing to work with mice, and should be familiar with or eager to learn basic and sophisticated techniques of molecular biology, cell biology, cell culture, imaging techniques, and orthotopic transplantation using the mouse as a model system. Lab work includes: mouse work; tissue culture (primary mammary epithelial cells and established cell lines); lentivirus production; western analysis; DNA, RNA, and protein preparation; PCR genotyping; and DNA subcloning, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry.

Mouse work will include: responsibilities in laboratory mice and in other procedures, such as transplantation of primary cells into the mammary gland, bone, or other tissues; in vivo imaging; tissue processing. Organizational work will include: training and integrating new people who join the project, managing supplies and general lab organization required of all lab members, and general lab maintenance. While the applicant need not be familiar with a given procedure, the applicant must be highly motivated, willing to learn, and attentive to details to benefit from instruction.

The expectation is for the candidate will achieve independence in regular activities and maintain detailed records. This position, whilelimited in term, could transition into a long term position. The candidate will oversee students, postdocs, and additional researchers in the lab.

The candidate is expected to be an independent researcher who has critical thinking skills and independence. Level of compensation will be related to experience. It is essential that the incumbent have familiarity with wet lab work, exceptional oral and written communication skills, and good organizational skills. Lab duties also include ensuring compliance of Littlepage Lab protocols, environment and materials with Notre Dame Safety regulations.

This limited-term position is for an initial term of two years (through 9-30-2026) and can be extended per the availability of external funding.