(Temporary) Research Assistant - Department of Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology

The Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a (Temporary) Research Assistant.

About the Opportunity

The Liu Laboratory, led by Dr. Tracy Liu, investigates tumor-immune interactions that drive cancer progression, treatment resistance, and therapeutic response using advanced imaging and immunological approaches. We are seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to contribute to studies defining how myeloperoxidase (MPO) regulates pancreatic cancer progression and treatment resistance. The ideal candidate will be scientifically curious, detail-oriented, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment. The candidate should possess strong organizational and communication skills, as well as experience performing complex in vivo and ex vivo experiments. This position involves daily interaction with the PI and lab members to design and execute experiments focused on orthotopic pancreatic tumor models, tumor immunology, and high-resolution in vivo imaging. The successful candidate will contribute to mechanistic studies of MPO using mouse models, immune profiling, and intravital microscopy.

What You'll Do

* Design, perform, and maintain records of experiments using orthotopic pancreatic tumor murine models.
* Conduct flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, in vivo imaging, and immunological assays to assess tumor-immune interactions.
* Perform and analyze pancreas window chamber intravital imaging studies.
* Isolate and characterize immune cell populations for functional and mechanistic assays.
* Evaluate myeloperoxidase activity in vivo and ex vivo, including biochemical and imaging-based readouts.
* Analyze and interpret experimental data; contribute to manuscript and presentation preparation.
* Work collaboratively with other team members and maintain an organized, safe laboratory environment.

• Pay Grade: 17
• Length of Assignment: Approximately 6 months
• Work Hours: 37.5 Hours per week

• Master's degree in Immunology, Cancer Biology, or a related field (Immunology and Microbial Pathogenesis preferred).
• A minimum of 0-6 months of laboratory research experience.
  • Demonstrated experience with mouse models of pancreatic cancer, flow cytometry, immunological assays, and microscopy.
  • Familiarity with in vivo imaging techniques and immune cell isolation is essential.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Ability to plan, execute, and troubleshoot experiments independently.
• Willingness and ability to learn new techniques and adapt to evolving project needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively within a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for documentation and data presentation.
  

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From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.