Scientist and Lab Manager Positions in Immunomodulation - Cancer and Autoimmunity

The Immunomodulation and Translational Research Program at NextGen Precision Health and the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Missouri focuses on developing novel biologics and their targeted delivery using various vehicles for immunomodulation. Our research aims to prevent and treat immune-related disorders, with a strong emphasis on type 1 diabetes and cancer immunotherapy and immunoprevention.

We are looking for highly organized, motivated, and experienced individuals to fill the positions of Research Scientist and Lab Manager to join our vibrant and collaborative research team. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research focused on applying novel immunomodulatory protocols developed in the program to prevent and treat type 1 diabetes and cancer, utilizing both rodent and humanized mouse models.

Candidates will have the chance to develop, execute, and evaluate experiments that assess the immunomodulatory efficacy of select biologics for various applications. The Lab Manager will play a central role in overseeing the daily operations of the lab, ensuring smooth workflows, compliance with protocols, and support for ongoing research activities.

Key Responsibilities: Research Scientist

Prevention of type 1 diabetes using the NOD mouse model and treatment with pancreatic islets or stem cell-derived beta cells. Prevention and treatment of cancer using transplantable and spontaneous cancer preclinical models, as well as HSC-humanized mouse models. Analyzing and organizing data for detailed record-keeping, grant, and manuscript submissions, and oral presentations at local, national, and international meetings. Contributing to ongoing research through active participation in lab discussions and training graduate students and technical personnel in necessary techniques. Lab Manager

Manage day-to-day laboratory operations, including maintaining supplies, reagents, and equipment. Coordinate ordering, inventory, and vendor communications. Maintain and enforce SOPs and ensure compliance with safety and institutional regulations. Oversee and assist with recombinant protein production and purification. Train and support new lab members in laboratory techniques and safety protocols. Maintaining mouse colony. Liaise with institutional departments (e.g., EH&S, purchasing, animal care). Support the planning and coordination of research experiments across projects. Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment. Required Qualifications: Research Scientist

Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent in a relevant biomedical field. Demonstrated expertise in microsurgery, particularly in islet transplantation techniques. Proficiency in rodent and/or humanized mouse models. Hands-on experience with immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and lymphocyte functional assays. Strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis skills. Excellent communication and organizational abilities. Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment. Lab Manager

MS in Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years of laboratory experience, with prior lab management experience strongly preferred. Hands-on experience with handling mice, including basic procedures such as injections, tissue collection, and animal monitoring. Expertise in tissue culture and molecular biology techniques. Familiarity with protein expression and purification techniques. Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking skills. Strong interpersonal and communication abilities; team-oriented mindset. Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to transformative research with the potential to improve outcomes for individuals with Type 1 Diabetes and cancer. You will join a collaborative, forward-thinking team at the University of Missouri, with access to state-of-the-art facilities through the NextGen Precision Health Institution.

Columbia, Missouri Information:

Columbia, MO., is known as an ideal college town, combining small-town comforts, community spirit, and low cost of living with big-city culture, activities, and resources. Home to nationally renowned public schools and other colleges and educational centers, Columbia is packed with restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen annual cultural festivals.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three references to Dr. Haval Shirwan at ... ;