Research Associate II, Single Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics with Childhood Cancer Data Initiative in Bethesda, MD

Description

 PROGRAM DESCRIPTION         

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community and provides dedicated support to NCI's intramural Center for Cancer Research (CCR). The dedicated units provide expertise in electron microscopy, protein characterization, mass spectrometry, protein expression, optical microscopy, and genomics. These research efforts are an integral part of CCR at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR), where CRTP scientists work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to provide dedicated single cell and spatial research support for the intramural Childhood Cancer Data Initiative (CCDI) effort. This will include close collaboration with CCDI Investigators to generate high-quality datasets for multiple projects using established single cell methods and help validate and employ emerging technologies. A major goal of this Initiative is to establish tumor cell atlases for rare pediatric malignancies.

This Research Associate will have a role in:

• Providing state-of-the-art single cell and spatial research support to CCDI Investigators
• Performing single cell captures, library preparation, quality control and sequencing
• Processing tissue sections for Spatial Transcriptomics
• Helping with experimental design, sample preparation and project troubleshooting
• Working to implement support for advanced single cell and spatial methods more efficiently and effectively

**THIS POSITION IS CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING APPROVAL** 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
• In addition to the education requirements, a minimum of five (5) years of related experience is required
• Experience performing cell and molecular biology experiments
• Familiarity with next generation sequencing methods
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Must be detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience with NextGen library generation, DNA/RNA isolation, and DNA/RNA quantitation
• Experience in Single Cell captures and library preparation
• General cell biology experience, including handling live cells and counting
• Experience working in a core facility or other team-based environment
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies quickly
• Knowledge and background experience in cancer biology and immunology

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to animal(s) and/or animal material(s)
• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.