RESEARCH SPECIALIST IN THE PRENSNER LAB AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

JOB APPLICATION LINK: https://careers.umich.edu/job_detail/249483/research-lab-specialist-interassoc

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Prensner laboratory (https://prensnerlab.org) at Chad Carr – Pediatric Brain Tumor Center in the Department of Pediatric Oncology and Department of Biological Chemistry is looking for an exceptional candidate for a unique Research Lab Specialist position. This position affords the exciting opportunity to be part of a research effort aiming to dissect the basis of pediatric cancer and its therapeutic implications.

Prior work in the lab has focused on the dark genome in cancer (Prensner et al., Nature Biotechnology 2021), gene discovery in pediatric brain cancer (Hofman et al., Molecular Cell, 2024), and small open reading frames (Prensner et al., Molecular & Cellular Proteomics 2023; Mudge, Ruiz-Orera, Prensner et al, Nature Biotechnology 2022).

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

The successful candidate will play a key role in the Prensner laboratory to develop in vivo model systems for scientific projects on drug research and basic cancer biology. This candidate will drive forward projects that utilize mouse models (e.g. xenografting and patient-derived models) as well as execute mouse colony maintenance. This candidate will work with the lab manager to maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and train junior lab members in animal-related work. Specific areas of interest include orthotopic xenografts in the brain as well as in utero electroporation into murine brains.

This candidate will also be expected to contribute to scientific projects through molecular biology techniques (DNA/RNA protocols, protein biology, tissue culture, drug experiments). He/she/they will participate directly in lab research both collaboratively and independently in the lab. He/she/they will receive commensurate academic credit for these efforts.

The specific project on which this candidate will contribute focuses on small molecule testing in pediatric cancer models to improve treatment options for patients.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

· Performs and manages mouse-related experiments. Maintains mouse colony.

· Trains new lab personnel in relevant techniques

· Documents, compiles, and analyzes lab operations. Reports data to supervisor in oral and written reports.

· Assists in writing and submitting protocols and amendments for review to IACUC/ULAM.

· Attends team meetings.

· Assists project leads with basic wet-lab techniques, including but not limited to: genomic DNA extraction, RNA extraction, western blotting, mycoplasma testing, molecular cloning, PCR, mammalian tissue culture, drug treatment assays. 

· Other related tasks as required.

REQUIREMENTS

Education

· Bachelor or master’s degree in the life sciences or other relevant discipline.

Experience

· Bachelor’s degree with at least 2 years of relevant professional experience

Skills and abilities

· Prior experience with mouse models of cancer is required. Prior experience with intracranial cancer models is desired. 

· Prior experience with molecular biology and mammalian tissue culture is strongly desired. 

· Exceptional organization and attention to detail are essential, related to lab maintenance tasks and experimental protocols.

· Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact with all levels of staff and with external contacts are needed.

· Ability and eagerness to learn in a self-motivating environment.

PRENSNER LAB ENVIRONMENT

The Prensner Lab (https://prensnerlab.org) seeks to create a lab culture based on respect, integrity, perseverance, and fun. We aspire to be creative and collaborative scientists who are societally-engaged. We regularly collaborate with labs both nationally and globally. We welcome applicants of all kinds.

THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

As one of the world’s top universities located in one of the country’s most highly educated and most livable cities, the University of Michigan provides an outstanding research environment that is matched by a vibrant city community. The nationally recognized medical school, cancer center, and basic science departments afford close interactions with top academic teams of diverse skillsets.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.