Department

BSD PAT - Gajewski Lab

About the Department

The Gajewski laboratory pursues research in anti-tumor immunity and cancer immunotherapy. Experimental approaches span basic studies in T cell biology, in vivo models of anti-tumor immunity, and translational studies in cancer patients. Major questions are focused on mechanisms of success versus failure of immunotherapies to improve therapeutic efficacy further. One of the factors impacting anti-tumor immunity is the composition of myeloid cells in the tumor microenvironment, which can be regulated by germline variants in the gene encoding PKCdelta. This is the focus of this technician position. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Job Summary

The goal of the current position is to provide technical support in our endeavors to understand the mechanisms by which germline variants in the PKCdelta gene regulate myeloid cell biology in a way that impacts on anti-tumor immunity. Isolation of bone marrow cells, in vitro culture, macrophage differentiation, flow cytometry, genomic analysis will all be part of this work. In vivo tumor experiments, immunology assays, and tumor analysis by RNAseq are expected to be performed. Screening of novel molecules that might inhibit PKCdelta, CRISPR gene editing, and qPCR analysis also will be part of the project.

Responsibilities

• Perform experiments involving myeloid cell differentiation from bone marrow cells in vitro.

• Analyze gene expression by RNAseq and qPCR,and perform flow cytometric analysis.

• Use CRISPR technology to knock down PKCdelta.

• In vivo tumor experiments using mouse models.

• Mouse tissue harvesting and processing for flow cytometry and other immunological techniques and respective analysis of the results.

• DNA, RNA isolation from cells and tissue samples.

• Analysis of DNA and RNA sequencing data.

• In vitro drug screens against PKCdelta.

• Provides technical and administrative support for a research project.

• Collects and enters data. Assists in analyzing data. Assists with preparation of reports, manuscripts and other documents.

• Assists with the installation, sets up and performs experiments; interacting with students and other laboratory staff under the direction of the principal investigator.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include vocational training, apprenticeships or the equivalent experience in related field (not typically required to have a four-year degree).

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences, or related field.

Experience:

• Experience working with mice and performing in vivo tumor experiments.

• 2+ years of experience working in a Lab.

• Familiarity with flow cytometry and other immune assays, RNA and DNA analysis, genomic sequencing, hematopoietic cell culture.

• Experience working with experimental mice.

​Preferred Competencies

• Knowledge of recombinant DNA technologies, cell culture, immunology assays, handling experimental mice.

• Understanding of bioinformatics, statistics.

• Highly proactive individual with a strong drive to take initiative, overcome obstacles, and expand their knowledge and skills.

• A strong background of cancer biology, microbiome, and immunology.

• Precision, attention to detail, strong organizational skills.

• Command of written and spoken English language.

Working Conditions

• Lab Environment.

• Weekend/Evening hours: as needed for experiments.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover Letter (preferred)

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Pay Frequency

Biweekly

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Benefits Eligible

Yes

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

Yes

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

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