Stanford University is seeking an experienced Immunologist (Life Science Research Professional 2) for a 1-year fixed term who is familiar with basic immune cell functional and signaling assays, in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo. The immunologist will work with the PI on projects focused on developing immunotherapeutics, as well as within project teams focused on different immune receptors. The experienced immunologist will work with teams developing immune modulation therapeutics. The Immunologist will provide broad support for the lab in immunology projects aimed at developing immunotherapeutics. This will involve working with different project teams focused on different aspects of the immune system. The successful candidate will be an experienced Immunologist and contribute to ongoing projects in the lab aimed at developing new immunotherapeutic molecules and strategies of cell surface receptors and their ligands using T cell assays, immune cell profiling, immune cell signaling, and in vivo mouse tumor models. The Immunologist will be expected to operate independently with minimal supervision and is expected to independently plan and conduct experiments regarding TCR and cytokine signaling pathways.
We are seeking a researcher to support the lab of Dr. Christopher Garcia at Stanford University in the biochemistry, signaling, cell biology and immuno-engineering of cell surface receptors and their ligands. Using a range of methodologies, the Garcia lab investigates how ligand recognition and signaling coordinate with the physiology of the cell. In addition to understanding basic aspects of receptor signaling (second messengers, gene expression) and structural biology, the team is also interested in the creation/engineering of novel receptor ligands using protein engineering. A major aim of their work is to synthetically leverage natural biological signaling mechanisms as a path to potential therapeutics. More information about this lab can be found on his website https://med.stanford.edu/garcialab.html.
The candidate will have expertise in the general area of biochemistry, signaling and cell biology, with preferred experience in analyzing cell signaling pathways and gene expression. Familiarity with recombinant protein expression from mammalian cells (i.e. 293), lentiviral transduction of both cell lines and primary immune cells, FACs analysis and sorting, basic cell culture of immune cells and assays. Prefer some experience in immunology, both in vitro and in vivo, with experience in analyzing TCR and cytokine signaling pathways, cell biology and gene expression, in vitro functional assays, as well as possibly carrying out in vivo tumor models in mice. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing projects in the lab aimed at developing new immunotherapeutic molecules and strategies. The position requires a highly self-motivated, accomplished individual with an outstanding track-record of innovation and success in both graduate school and postdoctoral research with a strong publication record. The position will require working in team environments supporting lab projects in a collaborative fashion, as well as individual projects. It is expected that the individual will contribute to publications, as well as assisting in basic aspects of grant preparation and progress reports.
Duties include:
- Independently conduct a portion of the research project(s). Make recommendations on experimental design and/or research direction to principal investigator.
- Independently conduct complex (lab and/or field) experiments to gather data for a portion of a major research project.
- Interpret and analyze results, often where few guidelines exist, and make modifications to existing procedures and protocols.
- Develop new research protocols where appropriate protocols are not described in the literature or where modification or adaptation of standard procedures and protocols is required.
- Participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
- Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; apply to ongoing research and development of new protocols.
- Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section, and to publication of findings. Present ongoing work to colleagues and/or academic conferences.
- Oversee supply and equipment budget under supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
- Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
- Supervise (either formally or informally) staff or students as needed, including oversight and direction on techniques, as well as consultation on project work. Serve as a technical resource for other research staff.
- Oversee the daily activities of the laboratory including lab maintenance; maintain lab stock, manage chemical inventory and safety records, and provide general lab support as needed. May assist with purchasing laboratory equipment.
*- Other duties may also be assigned
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- A Ph.D. or M.D. degree with at least 3 years of relevant postdoctoral research experience in academia and/or industry Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
- A strong background in immunology, in vitro and in vivo analysis of TCR and cytokine signaling, in vivo mouse tumor models, and preferably some experience with protein biochemistry, phospho-flow.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and two years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
- General computer skills and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs, databases, and scientific applications.
- Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
- Ability to maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes.
- Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to accurately complete detailed work.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
*- Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
WORK STANDARDS:
- Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
- Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors bases on training and lessons learned.
- Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University’s Administrative Guide.
