Research Associate - Cancer/Radiation Biology

The Nolan lab is housed in the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) at NC State University (Raleigh, North Carolina). Dr. Nolan runs an active research program primarily focused on the intersection of neurobiology and cancer/radiation biology. Our long-term goal is to identify novel targets for improved clinical management of pain that results from cancer treatment. We are also interested in understanding how pain signaling can influence the progression of cancer. To accomplish these goals, we utilize a combination of in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (rodent/mouse) models, as well as clinical trials in both veterinary and human cancer patients.

Essential Job Duties

The selected individual will understand the rationale for the research. They will be involved in design and performance of experiments to test research hypotheses in the fields of radiation biology, oncology, and comparative pain. The position includes a blend of laboratory-based benchtop experiments and assays, as well as live animal work.

The laboratory utilizes mammalian cell culture, basic histology, and microscopy (including the ability to execute immunohistochemistry experiments independently and digitize slides), and molecular biology techniques (WB, ELISA, qRT-PCR, genotyping, transfection). The successful candidate will be prepared to work independently to perform each of these assays, and will also be able to partake in data preparation/analysis. The Research Associate will contribute to publications and reports, and they may co-present results with the PI in meetings. Animal (mouse) work includes basic mouse handling, behavioral testing, injections, and anesthesia.

Job Duties:

• Assist in training undergraduate and graduate students
• Work alongside postdocs
• Perform experiments with various members of the lab.
• Management of multiple concurrent projects, analysis of data, and assistance in determining the next steps of such projects, including methodologic development.
• Interaction with outside collaborators.
• Provide research support to include handling and anesthetizing mice, and interfacing with laboratory animal staff.
• Documentation of all completed tasks
• Expected to read literature applicable to research areas
• Assist in the preparation of animal care and use protocols, and manage the scheduling of laboratory procedures.
• Interact with clinical staff in our small animal (canine/feline) veterinary hospital, as well as graduate and undergraduate-level trainees.
• Potential opportunities for involvement in veterinary clinical trials.

Other Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot lab-based problems and will assume some responsibilities for the overall running of the lab, including training of laboratory staff and students.
• Up to 30% of the position's time may be dedicated to laboratory management activities
• Ordering and maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment (e.g., inventory, purchasing, coordination with service engineers)
• Update laboratory safety plans and SOPs, maintaining stock solutions; autoclaving, etc.

Qualifications

Minimum Education and Experience

Relevant Master's degree, or Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of experience in animal handling and molecular biology.

Other Required Qualifications

• Prior research experience including mammalian cell culture, basic histology and microscopy, and molecular biology techniques (WB, ELISA, qRTPCR, genotyping, transfection).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organization skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines, goal-oriented, and high level of motivation.
• Ability to work individually and also as part of a team.
• Competency with Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel). Strong fine motor skills.
• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds with or without reasonable accommodations.

Preferred Qualifications

Prior rodent-based research experience (including mouse colony management {breeding, genotyping, etc.} and basic mouse handling, injections, and anesthesia)

Required License(s) or Certification(s)

N/A

Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No