Post Doctoral Associate

A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the Brain Tumor Nanotechnology Laboratory of Constantinos G. Hadjipanayis MD, PhD Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The laboratory is a benchtop and translational lab comprised of a competitive group of scientists. The research focus is to facilitate translation of benchtop and rodent work into human clinical trials, with the ultimate goal to positively impact patients' outcomes. The laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge machinery for the application of magnetic hyperthermia therapy (MHT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) both in cell culture and in rodent brain tumor models. Another focus of the lab is the use of focused ultrasound (FUS), for either sonodynamic therapy of malignant brain tumors or blood-brain barrier opening for enhanced systemic delivery of therapeutics in the brain.

We are seeking a motivated individual who will be mainly involved in the study of the immune-related effects of the aforementioned technologies to better understand the involvement and contribution of the immune system cell population on brain tumor biology, as well as the immunomodulatory effects of MHT, PDT, and FUS. The fellow will be directly involved in both cell culture and small animal experiments. The successful candidate will have access to state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, animals, and imaging facilities, and work in a collaborative environment with other scientists in the Hillman Cancer Center of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Functioning independently, the Postdoctoral Researcher will design, organize, and conduct highly specialized and advanced experiments using established and newly designed scientific protocols and procedures. Duties assigned to this position may involve organizing and implementing complex research plans, developing research methodologies, as well as collecting, analyzing, and presenting data, during weekly lab meetings. Furthermore, the Postdoctoral fellow will summarize findings and publish results in research journals, assume general responsibility for scientific laboratory operations, and provide supervision and guidance to junior technicians, students, and researchers. The duties will require independent discretion and judgment in carrying out research activities within the predetermined research scope and methodology.

As a team member of the Brain Tumor Nanotechnology Laboratory and with the guidance of Constantinos G. Hadjipanayis MD, PhD, the Postdoctoral fellow's key responsibilities/duties will be the following:

* Prepare media, culture, and maintain multiple murine and primary human brain tumor cell lines, as well as handle, inject, and dissect small animals and perform surgery.

* Collect, prepare, and analyze research data, including periodical pertinent scientific literature search, and keep a detailed notebook and computer database summarizing experiments and protocols used.

* Display data for presentation in research conferences and meetings, participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and in grant writing.

* Supervise other personnel in the laboratory to coordinate research efforts for increased efficiency and participate in the training of fellows, residents, students, and volunteer workers as needed.

* Assist with ordering of supplies as needed and general lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance.

Selection criteria outline the qualifications, skills, knowledge, and/or experience that the candidate would need to demonstrate for the successful execution of the responsibilities/duties of this position. Applications will be assessed based on how well candidates satisfy the following criteria:

A doctoral degree (PhD) in molecular biology, biochemistry, experimental medicine, or a related field.

A background in immunology, preferably with a focus on cancer immunology.

Proficiency in the main molecular and cellular biology techniques.

Familiarity with basic animal work techniques (animal handling, common routes of injection, basic euthanasia methods). Experience with animal surgery is preferred.

Ability in the use of graphics and statistical software to analyze and present data.

Excellent organizational skills and work ethics.

Demonstrated understanding of the requirements for the successful execution of a research project.

Ability to generate new ideas and build upon existing ones to develop unique concepts and solutions.

Ability to fulfill the academic writing requirements for scientific publications.

Ability to effectively communicate, interact, and work together with team members and students to help build their research skills and knowledge and to support and guide their professional development.

Interested parties please go to join.pitt.edu and apply using requisition #23003075

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