Research Assistant I - Center for Prostate Disease Research

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to support The Dr. Leigh Ellis laboratory at the Center for Prostate Disease Research (CPDR) working on translational cancer research. The Ellis laboratory interests include the characterization of comprehensive molecular signatures, survival pathways and associated rational therapeutic targets in lethal prostate cancers, with a specific focus on epigenetics and phenotypic plasticity, and their role in disease progression and therapeutic resistance. To achieve this, we generate and utilize novel genetically engineered mouse models, human and mouse 3D organoid cultures, therapeutics, functional genomics, and molecular and genomic approaches (including next generation sequencing platforms, and CRISPR/Cas9 technology). Important to the Ellis Lab mission is to translate scientific discovery to first in human clinical trials.

The Research Assistant I will be responsible for performing research in collaboration with a research team consisting of scientific and clinical investigators. Candidates should have interests in molecular biology, 3D organoid and in vivo modeling and basic knowledge of single cell omics and spatial profiling. Incumbent exercises technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies. Performs limited analysis and interpretation of results.

This position will be in support of the Murtha Cancer Center Research Program (MCCRP) and the Center for Prostate Disease Research (CPDR) located at the Rockledge Offices in Bethesda, Maryland. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to the MCCRP and CPDR.

CPDR is an interdisciplinary translational prostate cancer research program of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) Department of Surgery and the John P. Murtha Cancer Center Research Program at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Established in 1992 (Public Law 102-172), CPDR's mission is fulfilled primarily through its three principal programs: (1) the Clinical Translational Research Center; (2) the Basic Science Research Program, and (3) the Multicenter National Prostate Cancer Database to encompass its clinical research work with participating military medical centers.

Please click here to learn more about CPDR.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

This position will be scheduled for 1 year with possibility to extend.

• Performs research projects, including the collection and organization of data. Follows instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Performs data entry in accurate, timely, and efficient manner. Maintains clear and accurate data collection records and inventories in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Maintains supplies in the laboratory and ensures proper cleanliness and sanitation in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Creates, collects, disseminates, and maintains appropriate study data.
• Assists in the preparation of technical reports, summaries, and protocols. Creates and communicates detailed observations on experiments.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required, focus in biological sciences preferred.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Performs duties with the Principal Investigator including experimental design, ability to analyze data, and interpret results.
• Candidate should have basic knowledge of relevant molecular & cellular biology skills/techniques, cancer signaling pathways, and cell culture work.
• The laboratory works with large-scale omic data explore cancer networks. Background in cancer cell biology/models, molecular biology, biochemistry, epigenetics, and mouse models is desirable but not required.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques, ability to follow detailed instructions, and meet project deadlines is required.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $18.25-$22.35. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.