As a type of immunotherapy, cell therapies enhance the natural abilities of immune cells, such as T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, to detect and eliminate cancer cells at a magnitude the human body could never do alone. Cancer cells can often make themselves invisible to the immune system. Therefore, to better detect cancer cells, we can genetically modify immune cells by adding certain molecules, such as a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). Cell therapies also can be engineered to enhance their activity against target cells.

Bringing together the top minds in the field, the Institute for Cell Therapy Discovery & Innovation will lead exceptional discovery, translational and clinical research to accelerate the development of new treatments for cancer as well as autoimmune diseases, infections and other conditions. The institute aims to provide safe and effective therapies that will be available "off-the-shelf," which could improve access and lower treatment costs.

Home to the world's largest cancer clinical trials program, MD Anderson leverages its tremendous research engine to advance new cell therapy applications safely and quickly. We draw upon expertise in immunology, cancer genomics, drug development, data science and artificial intelligence to translate scientific discoveries into impactful treatments. By gaining new insights in immunology and cell engineering, the institute will fuel the creation of breakthrough therapies that can be readily adapted to address emerging needs.

Institute for Cell Therapy Discovery & Innovation

The ideal candidate will have experience with iPSC and/or CAR NK immunotherapy.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

Technical Lab duties
1. Performs technical laboratory duties in accordance with a predetermined course of action.
2. Assists with the development of novel ex vivo expansion strategies and treatments for cord blood derived hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
3. Documentation of mice colony database.
4. Liaison with other departments and outside institutions working on collaborative clinical research projects.
5. Competence in the use of sterile technique and the use of Universal Precautions when handling potentially biohazardous clinical samples.
6. Familiarity with appropriate literature in the field and willingness to learn and contribute ideas that might improve techniques.

Clinical Protocol maintenance
7. Interpret and refine techniques with clinical research protocols.
8. Familiarity with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) used in the clinic allowing the processing of clinical samples as required.

Administrative
9. Assist with laboratory supply ordering.
10. Maintenance and inventory of cell lines catalogues stored in liquid nitrogen tanks.

EDUCATION

Required: Bachelor's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.

Preferred: Master's degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.

EXPERIENCE

Required: Three years of experience in scientific or experimental research work. With preferred degree, one year of required experience.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html

Additional Information
Requisition ID: 171625 Employment Status: Full-Time Employee Status: Regular Work Week: Day/Evening Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 50,000 Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 62,500 Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 75,000 FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay Fund Type: Soft Work Location: Onsite Pivotal Position: Yes Referral Bonus Available?: No Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes Science Jobs: Yes
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