Department: Pharmacy Practice and Translational ResearchSalary: Commensurate with experience
Description:
The Department of Pharmacy Practice and Translational Research at the College of Pharmacy at the University of Houston invites applications for a full-time, non-tenure track, Research Scientist for gastric caner research. The Research Scientist will work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) to establish and operate a research laboratory focused on gastrointestinal cancer biology and translational cancer research. The position requires independent execution of in vivo and in vitro studies, laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, and support for the laboratory research program. Key Responsibilities Laboratory Setup & Operations • Coordinate procurement of laboratory supplies, research animals, and equipment while maintaining appropriate documentation. • Ensure compliance with UH, IACUC, EHS, and federal regulations. Animal Studies • Independently perform complex murine cancer studies, including orthotopic tumor implantation, tail vein injections, tissue harvesting, and necropsy. • Maintain and manage genetically engineered mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, and colony management. • Assist the PI in preparing, revising, and maintaining IACUC protocols. • Train students and research personnel in animal procedures and surgical techniques. Research & Experimental Work • Perform molecular biology, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, cell culture, Western blotting, qPCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry. • Establish and culture primary cells, including fibroblasts and tumor-derived cells, when required by the research program. • Analyze experimental data and prepare publication-quality figures. Administrative & Collaborative Support • Train and mentor graduate students, research assistants, and visiting scholars. • Participate in laboratory meetings and collaborative research discussions. Qualifications Required • PhD in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related discipline. • Extensive experience conducting independent cancer research using murine tumor models. • Demonstrated expertise in molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, and biochemical techniques. • Experience working with laboratory rodents under IACUC-approved protocols. Preferred • 5+ years of experience in gastric cancer research • Extensive experience conducting translational cancer research. • Experience establishing and maintaining genetically engineered mouse colonies, including breeding and genotyping. • Experience establishing orthotopic murine tumor models. • Experience preparing, modifying, and maintaining IACUC protocols. • Experience with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. • Experience isolating and culturing primary mammalian cells. • Demonstrated ability to independently design, troubleshoot, and execute complex in vivo studies. • Demonstrated ability to establish new experimental models and train laboratory personnel in advanced molecular and animal techniques. • Demonstrated record of first-author or corresponding-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. Competencies • Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality scientific work. • Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with team members. • Initiative and problem-solving skills, especially in a new lab environment. • Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical research standards. Work Environment • Laboratory setting with regular exposure to biological materials, chemicals, and animal facilities. • Requires compliance with all UH safety, biosafety, and animal care regulations. • May involve occasional evening or weekend work depending on experimental schedules.
Employees are expected to have a home address in the state of Texas for the duration of their appointments. Official transcripts are required for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon selection of the final candidates. All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check. Individuals conducting research in critical infrastructure areas (i.e., communication infrastructure systems, cybersecurity systems, electric grid, hazardous waste treatment systems, and/or water treatment facilities) are subject to regular review to ensure the security and integrity of the research is maintained. The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions. Everyone is encouraged to apply.
