Research Scientist-Laboratories of Neuroimmunology-Symptom Research CAO

Laboratories of Neuroimmunology

Department of Symptom Research

The Laboratories of Neuroimmunology consist of the research teams of four collaborating Principal Investigators who aim at understanding chronic pain, cognitive deficits and fatigue in response to cancer treatment.

We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Scientist to work on a funded UG3 award to develop a new small molecule therapeutic for treatment of chronic pain, which will culminate in a Phase 1 clinical trial. The therapeutic target is the antioxidant transcription factor NRF2, which regulates neuroinflammation and neuronal hyperexcitability in neuropathic pain (Li et al., Anesthesiology (2020) 132: 343-56). Investigations will be performed using cells lines, mouse models of neuropathic pain, and post-mortem assessments. A background in molecular biology, biochemistry, or behavioral neuroscience is preferred. We highly value innovation, learning, hard work, creativity and an interactive, respectful and fun atmosphere. The Research Scientist will work under direct supervision of the Principal Investigator on this NIH-funded project.

If you are interested in helping to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms of pain and developing novel interventions to help improve the quality of life for people suffering from chronic pain in an internationally-renowned, well-funded group of scientists using a highly integrated and interdisciplinary approach in the number one cancer center in the USA, we are the perfect environment for you!

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Research Activity

• Cell culture using cell lines
• Luciferase assays and immunoassays
• Nerve injury surgery
• Drug treatments in vivo
• Behavioral assays of pain in mice
• Immunohistochemistry and microscopy studies on cells and nervous system tissues
• Western blotting and qPCR

• Present results in departmental and national meetings
• Prepare and write manuscripts for publication.

2. Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Learning Skills

• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Communication with faculty and staff within and outside the laboratory.
• Ability to work with others in a highly collaborative manner.
• Good problem-solving abilities.

3. Other

• Responsible for monitoring laboratory equipment and implementing safety procedures.

EDUCATION: Masters degree in one of the natural sciences or related field.

EXPERIENCE: Four years of experience in experimental or scientific work. With PhD, no experience required. With Medical degree, two years of experience in experimental or scientific work.

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