The Research Specialist, Cancer Research will function under the supervision of Principal Investigator, Kevin Tong. The laboratory investigates molecular mechanisms of colon cancer progression, tumor microenvironment, and cancer drug resistance. The employee will be responsible for assisting the PI in the daily function of the laboratory and in conducting experiments. Specifically, the employee will be responsible for collecting and processing clinical samples for organoids (PDOs), general patient tissue histology, and developing methods to perform drug resistance screens. The employee will play an active role in all of these efforts by assisting the PI in performing experiments, generating results, and data interpretation. The candidate should have at least 2 years of relevant experience working in laboratory research and be proficient in general molecular and/or biochemical techniques. Experience in organoid derivation and culture and/or mouse models is highly preferred.

The Center for Discovery and Innovation- CDI was established by Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) as an academic basic and translational research enterprise to rapidly translate science innovation to the clinic and to improve outcomes for patients with cancer, infectious diseases, autoimmune disease and other acute and chronic diseases.  The CDI has grown rapidly since its origins in 2019, and now has 32 labs, 190 scientists and allied personnel supported by 60 NIH grants and more than 30 other grants and contracts. Areas of expertise include genomics, epigenetics, drug resistance, stem cell biology, drug discovery, diagnostics and biomarker development, and pharmacology.

A day in the life of a Research Specialist, Cancer Research , Center for Discovery and Innovation- CDI at Hackensack Meridian Health includes:

• Performs general laboratory functions including but not limited to equipment maintenance and restocking.
• Assists in designing and performing experiments and data analysis.
• Maintains accurate notes and records of all research performed.
• Performs data collection and interpretation of results.
• Creates reports from analysis of initial observations and conclusions.
• Establishes experimental protocols, design and documentation.
• Responsible for the day-to-day operations of the lab.
• Recommends changes to the lab practices and procedures.
• Uses necessary equipment to perform studies.
• Maintains lab space.
• Learns about and shares with laboratory members the latest advances in laboratory techniques being used.
• Communicates issues to the Principal Investigator, Laboratory Manager or Department Chair.
• Other duties and/or projects as assigned.
• Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent training.
• Minimum of 1 or more years of experience.
• Ability to work independently and have a strong work ethic.
• Ability to work well with others in a team environment.
• Flexible in work schedule. Must be available to occasionally come to the laboratory on a weekend day or stay late for a given experiment.
• Lab specific technical skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills that include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms.

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred:

• B.Sc. or Master's degree.
• Experience working in a BSL2/BSL3 lab facility.
• Experience with small animal handling.
• Other lab specific.

If you feel that the above description speaks directly to your strengths and capabilities, then please apply today!