Research Scientist

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

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Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education and research.

Patient care: We promote health and provide superb clinical care while maintaining our strong tradition of reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities across North Carolina and beyond.

Education: We prepare tomorrow`s healthcare professionals and biomedical researchers from all backgrounds by facilitating learning within innovative and integrated curricula and team-oriented interprofessional education to ensure a highly skilled workforce.

Research: We develop and support a rich array of outstanding health sciences research programs, centers and resources. We provide infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration among disciplines throughout and beyond our university to support outstanding research. We foster programs in the areas of basic, translational, mechanistic and population research.

Dr. Gaorav Gupta's laboratory at the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center is seeking a Research Scientist to assist in studying the role of DNA damage responses in breast cancer development and treatment response. This Research Scientist will design, execute, and analyze in vivo and in vitro experiments to study novel combination therapies in breast cancer mouse models, organoids, and primary mammary epithelial cell culture. Additional responsibilities will include management of our transgenic mouse colony including breeding, weaning, and genotyping, ordering lab supplies and general lab management, and assisting other lab members with experiments involving cellular and molecular biology methods. Required mouse handling techniques include intraperitoneal and retro-orbital injections, submandibular cheek bleeds, and oral gavage. The position will involve oversight/supervision of technicians and graduate students, and coordination of multiple research projects. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and precise record keeping are required.
In addition to carrying out these research projects, the research scientist will also be expected to lead efforts to present the results of these projects in lab meetings and conferences as well as assist in the authorship of manuscripts and grants. Thus, strong scientific communication skills are fundamental for this position.

Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity, will accept a relevant Bachelor's degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. May require terminal degree and licensure.

Experience with mouse colony management, mammalian tissue culture, and standard molecular biology techniques.
Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Powerpoint.
Exceptional organizational skills and record keeping.

PhD in cancer biology, immunology, cellular/molecular biology, or a related field.
Experience in cell and molecular biology preferably in the study of DNA damage repair. The candidate must also have proficiency in the isolation, culture, and manipulation of primary cells. Experience with organoids and microscopy is preferred. Must have solid knowledge in cancer biology, develop project concepts, as well as author manuscripts and grants in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

The candidate will be required to perform lab tasks and procedures that involve physical dexterity. The applicant must be willing to work with and handle mice, including performing dissections.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.