RESEARCH SCIENTIST/ENGINEER 3

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The Department of Medicine: Hematology & Oncology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist/Engineer 3 to join their team.

Field of Research:

This position is engaged in cancer research, translational medicine, and immunology.

Purpose of the Research Projects:

The Cancer Vaccine Institute (CVI) is developing vaccines for the treatment and prevention of some of the most common and deadly cancers, including breast, ovarian, lung, colon, prostate, and bladder. The CVI develops vaccines that selectively elicit an inflammatory, tumor destructive response and vaccines that selectively elicit an anti-inflammatory response, to combat auto-immune diseases and inflammation leading to cancer. The CVI has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist 3 who will work under the general supervision of a Principal Scientist to support discovery and translational immune-oncology research to advance the preclinical-development of a broad range of vaccines. This position will independently perform assays which will be directly used for identifying and validating lead vaccine target antigens and optimizing vaccines, adjuvants, and delivery methods, and evaluating immune responses after vaccination of in mouse models. This position will also perform work leading the preclinical development of precision probiotics for modulating the immune tumor microenvironment and development and optimization of metabolic assays. The data generated by this position will help advance vaccines in preclinical development to clinical trials at the CVI.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Conducting experiments (60%)

Conduct immunologic experiments such as multiparameter flow cytometry, cytokine ELISPOT assays, cell culture maintenance, and western blots.

Develop and execute experimental plans, standard operating procedures, utilizing appropriate controls based on the study requirements and desired experimental outcomes.

Perform assays accurately, with precision and reproducibility. Assay approaches should include potential pitfalls and an extensive understanding of potential sources of assay failures prior to, during, and after experiment(s) are complete.

Stimulate and culture primary cells/cell lines in vitro for up to several months.

Development and execution of experiments.

Prepare/Maintain laboratory reagents, chemicals, instruments and specialized lab equipment.

Order reagents, anticipate upcoming supply needs, and keep track of expiring consumables and schedules to ensure continuity of work.

Analysis and Interpretation (30%)

Interpret experimental results and recommend modification of procedures as necessary.

Conduct data analysis and interpretation of results, providing suggestions of next steps for the experiment, and developing statements for further grant submissions and publications.

Identifies problems and related technical issues leading to long-term, generic solutions; identifies technical approach for solving problems and meeting customer/grantor needs.

Read and understand recent relevant literature to develop an understanding of best practices and to determine novel approaches to unique scientific project questions.

Initiates and manages moderate size projects and communicate with outside PIs and supervisor regarding study project progress and make recommendations for improvements.

Contribute to reports, publications, and co-author papers presenting own work.

Communication, Quality assessment, Improvements (10%)

Continue co-workers' experiments mid-way, and take over the responsibility of remaining steps in a standard operating procedure.

Promote and contribute to the development of teamwork in the service and working relationships between the laboratory and other departments.

Participate in and support quality assessment and improvement activities for assay work.

Receptive to new ideas and procedures.

Adapt to new routines and schedules as needed.

Occasionally mentor junior staff and/or undergraduate students in development of technical lab skills.

Research Sponsors/Stakeholders:

NIH, DOD, FHCRC, Private Organizations and Foundations

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's degree in immunology or related field and four or more years of relevant laboratory research experience or equivalent combination of education/experience.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to perform meticulous manual tasks and to use good sterile technique.

Ability to multitask with excellent time management skills and outstanding productivity.

Excellent computer, organizational, and record keeping skills.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively within an established team environment.

Experience in cellular immunology, such as flow cytometry and ELISPOT, on both human and mouse samples.

Extensive experience in cell/tissue culture.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Master's degree in immunology or related field.

Five or more years of experience.

Knowledge of current literature on tumor immunology.

Experienced in molecular and protein biology.

Highly organized and have a knowledge of laboratory working environments.

Experience in deadline-driven research.

Accommodate schedule changes to cooperatively accomplish required daily work.

Form productive working relationships with co-workers. Communicate clearly, directly and on a timely basis.

Open to receiving feedback and making constructive changes as a result.

Open to receiving direction and ask for assistance when needed.

Demonstrate a courteous, respectful, professional attitude and behavior at all times.

Application Process: The application process may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select "Apply to this position". Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment, you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your "My Jobs" page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are access ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.

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Committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, the University of Washington will honor your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable and welcoming.

The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.