Seeking a research technician to work in a dynamic and fast-paced Translational Oncology research laboratory at the Hillman Cancer Center of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The candidate will work under the direction of a physician-scientist in the Department of Radiation Oncology and will help carry out experiments investigating pediatric brain tumor cancer biology and the response to DNA damage agents. Roles will include cell culture, in vitro cell viability assays, Western Blot, DNA/RNA extraction, mouse work including orthotopic tumor implantation, treating tumor-bearing mice (radiation, drug administration), monitoring tumor growth, and harvesting mouse tissues for further analyses. Experience doing basic science research and cell culture is required.

Candidates should have at least a Bachelors of Science in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, and one year of post-graduate research experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Maintain an organized and complete lab notebookpropagate cells in cell cultures and perform in vitro viability assays and clonogenic assaysperform western blots to characterize cell lines, tumor tissues, and mouse tissuesExtract DNA and RNA from mouse tumor tissueOrthotopic injection of tumor cell lines in miceIn-vivo bioluminescence imaging to track tumor growthCollecting tumor tissue from micePerform staining and flow cytometry analysis on murine and human cellstreatment of tumor bearing mice with radiation using both external beam and/or radiopharmaceuticalsMeet or communicate by e-mail with PI to plan experiments, troubleshoot problems, and discuss resultsAssist in recruitingMaintain reagents or equipment in the labAssist in the development and optimization of new research procedures

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail is required. Must have the ability to work independently as well as part of a collaborative team. Must have excellent communication skills and the ability to maintain meticulous records.