The Deininger laboratory at the Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI), located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is seeking to recruit a Senior Research Programs Administrator to assist the PI at a high level in the running of the research program. The lab is focused on translational research in hematologic malignancies, specifically myeloid leukemia, and seeks to bridge between mechanistic investigation and the clinic. Routinely employed disease models include genetically modified mice, patient-derived xenografts, leukemia cells lines and ex vivo culture of primary leukemia cells. Analytical technologies are focused on biochemistry, cell biology and genetics. Current lab staff includes four postdoctoral fellows, three technicians and one lab manager.

VBRI is an academic center dedicated to innovative research in hematology. VBRI science spans the entire research spectrum of hematology, from basic mechanistic inquiry to clinical-translational and population science. The VBRI currently houses 28 principal investigators with five focuses areas - Hematopoiesis, Glycobiology, Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Transfusion Medicine, and Immunology. The VBRI has started a significant expansion of its research capacity, with the goal of adding 18 new PIs over a 5–7-year period. Designs for a new 60,000 – 80,000 ft2 research building are under development, with completion anticipated early 2026. 

This role is designed to support Dr. Deininger’s research program, with the following responsibilities:  

• Writing advanced drafts of grant applications Writing advanced draft of manuscripts Writing advanced drafts of clinical trial protocols Interfacing with the clinical research programs Assisting with progress reports and other compliance work Working with the lab manager to maintain a highly functional and efficient lab Supervising technical staff Serving as a resource of expertise and advise for postdocs and students Scouting out new technologies Establishing and maintaining national and international collaborations

The holder of this position is not expected to pursue their own research program, secure their own grants, or write their own papers, although this is not excluded. The emphasis is on supporting the lab’s existing research program and helping to create a high-pressure environment (yes, in Milwaukee!) that produces impactful science and influences how we prevent, diagnose, and treat leukemia.

This is a hard money position that is not dependent on grant funding. It has many of the features of a PI’s role, but not the responsibility of paying for one’s own salary. It is a great job for someone who wants to make a difference in translational leukemia research, likes to push scientific rigor and innovation, has the emotional intelligence to navigate a complex academic (and some corporate) environment and wants to be a key player in a great team. This is not a beginner’s job, but a seasoned scientist’s, a job for someone who has passion for science and discovery, does not shrink back from exploring uncharted territory, and is willing to take on significant responsibility.

To learn more about Dr. Deininger and his research:  https://versiti.org/about-us/versiti-leadership-team/michael-deininger

Milwaukee| versiti.org/careers/living-in-milwaukee. Located on the west side of beautiful Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, Milwaukee is a well-kept secret of affordable quality of life. The city boasts a range of museums, some of the nation's largest summer festivals, a multi-cultural population rich in culinary and artistic tradition, a progressive downtown area, and many outdoor recreation opportunities, including plenty of parks, river walks, and public beaches. Housing is affordable, public, and parochial schools are excellent, and traffic is a breeze. Milwaukee neighborhoods are known for variety, character, and unique architecture, offering superb quality of life and exceptional work-life balance in a city rife with history. With Chicago only 75 minutes away, world-class cultural and sporting venues and one of the world’s busiest air travel hubs are within easy reach.