Senior Research Scientist

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston is one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. It was named the nation's No. 1 hospital for cancer care in U.S. News & World Report's 2018 rankings. It is one of the nation's original three comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute.

SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS/COMPENTENCIES

The lab is looking for a highly motivated and skilled senior research scientist with at least 5 years of post-doctoral work experience in a high-performance biomedical research environment. Key expertise required for the position are demonstrated and exceptional skills in planning and execution of scientific projects in protein engineering with a special emphasis on developing novel therapeutic strategies in cancer therapy through modulating T-cell responses. We are looking for a highly trained biochemist and cell biologist who can take on a leadership role in the lab to coordinate and execute research projects involving targeted degradation of trans-membrane receptors and ubiquitin ligases, as well as cell surface receptor de-orphanization projects using proximity labeling approaches. Experience with quantitative mass spectrometry - a key expertise of the Kalocsay lab - is highly desired. We further require a deep understanding of receptor signaling and immune-checkpoint biology as well as cancer-relevant signaling pathways by the candidate. The capacity to plan and execute large scale studies directed at identifying potential new targets for therapy as well as demonstrated leadership skills through mentoring and education of students and fellow post-graduate scientists are additional qualifications we seek in the candidate.

• • Performs basic science and translational research projects related to novel therapeutic targets in modulation of T-cell responses
  • Develops new strategies and tools to define the roles and mechanisms of T-cell activation and immune checkpoint function in treating cancer;
  • Takes on a leading role in the lab and coordinates the lab's entire research program guided by the principal investigator (PI)
  • Educates graduate students and students and advises post-doctoral fellows on scientific techniques and methodology.
  • Assists the PI in writing grants and acquiring project funding.
  • Is actively involved in planning the research strategy of the lab's research program.
  • Regularly attends relevant international conferences to be up to date on newest developments in technology and the field.
  • Develops and maintain research projects, comprehend relevance of results and integrate research data, identify and solve problems relating to job responsibilities utilizing knowledge and experience.
  • Assist principal investigator with preparation of grants and papers, including drafting documents, scientific analysis, and editing
  • Determine specific goals or objectives to be attained, evaluate research data and revise techniques or approaches to work problems
  • Supervise the design, development or adapting of equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results
  • Plan and supervise the training of technicians and other laboratory personnel with respect to proper laboratory techniques, the use of laboratory equipment and safety procedures.
  • Ensures that safety standards are maintained in the laboratory, collaborate with other investigators at MDACC and outside this institution on research projects.
  • Must be present physically to work a minimum of 40 hours per week in the Institution.
  • Must read and comprehend research literature and attend seminars to be well informed on latest scientific developments in field of interest.
  • Other duties as assigned

Education
Required: Ph.D. in one of the natural sciences or related field or Medical degree.

Preferred: PhD in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Biology or related relevant disciplines

Experience
Required: Three years of experience in experimental or scientific work.

Preferred: More than 5 years of experience with research in a high-performance biomedical research environment. Experience with CRISPR technologies for therapeutic target screens is desirable

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