Houston, Texas
5 days ago
In vitro Assay Scientist
Within The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center lies a powerful engine driving the future of new targeted, immune- and cell-based therapies: the Therapeutics Discovery Division. Therapeutics Discovery eliminates the bottlenecks that hamper traditional drug discovery, with a multidisciplinary team of dedicated researchers, doctors, drug developers and scientific experts working together to develop small-molecule drugs, biologics and cellular therapies. Our unique structure and collaborative approach allow the team to work with agility, bringing novel medicines from concept to clinic quickly and efficiently - all under the same roof.

The Therapeutics Discovery Division is built around four platforms: The Institute for Applied Cancer Science (IACS), ORBIT (Oncology Research for Biologics and Immunotherapy Translation), TRACTION (Translational Research to Advance Therapeutics and Innovation in Oncology) and the Belfer Neurodegeneration Consortium.

SUMMARY

As part of the new, ambitious, Therapeutics Data Science initiative at MDACC, the Institute for Data Science in Oncology (IDSO) and the Institute for Applied Cancer Science (IACS) will work together to accelerate the discovery and impact of novel therapies for cancer. To progress novel opportunities for optimized therapies for patients we are establishing a focused biophysical and biochemical assay lab to validate the function and drug ability of novel targets and target sites. The ideal candidate will participate in cross-functional research to initiate and drive biophysical and biochemical assay methods to enable the discovery and validation of novel therapeutic targets for cancer, identified through innovative AI methods. This role will work closely with other members of the Therapeutics Discovery Division towards progressing exploratory targets to full drug discovery and development projects. The focus will be on previously unexplored molecular targets and/or functional sites and will therefore play a crucial part of our novel exploratory portfolio to bring therapeutics to neglected cancers.

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

1. Develops and applies biophysical and biochemical screening strategies for exploratory drug discovery programs, as well as mechanism of action studies to enable advancement of Institute projects through leadership and experimental activities. This includes the application of enzymology principles and techniques. The focus will be on small molecules, and span multiple modalities including reversible/irreversible modulators, molecular glues and degraders as befits the project.

2. Analyzes data generated by various studies and leverage results for the design of future studies. Integrates data to identify genes/pathways pertinent to tumor development and treatment. Contribute to project teams through lab-based activities, developing and implementing biochemical and biophysical assays for target validation, hit identification and confirmation, lead optimization, and mechanism of action studies. Techniques include SPR, fluorescence polarization, FRET/TR-FRET, ITC, DSF, RF-MS, MST, etc...

3. Works closely with other scientists to identify and develop advanced technical ideas in the areas of biochemistry and biophysics and contribute to development and implementation.

4. Collaborate with internal and external scientists across functional areas to plan and execute the strategy for our exploratory programs.

5. Resource projects in a flexible manner, including efficient use of outsourcing.

6. Employ safe lab practices.

7. Maintain clear research records and laboratory notes.

EDUCATION:
Required: Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, enzymology, pharmacology, chemistry or related field.

Preferred: Master's or PhD in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, enzymology, pharmacology, chemistry or related field.

EXPERIENCE: Six years experience of relevant research experience in laboratory With Master's degree, four years of required experience. With a PhD in a natural science or Medical degree, no experience required.

Preferred: Experience in conducting SPR studies and using automated liquid handling and other automation would be beneficial. High attention to detail and ability to maintain clear records of experimental work is critical. Demonstrated ability to work in a team-orientated environment. Good verbal and written communications skills are necessary

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

Additional Information
Requisition ID: 172323 Employment Status: Full-Time Employee Status: Regular Work Week: Days Minimum Salary: US Dollar (USD) 101,325 Midpoint Salary: US Dollar (USD) 127,100 Maximum Salary : US Dollar (USD) 152,000 FLSA: exempt and not eligible for overtime pay Fund Type: Soft Work Location: Onsite Pivotal Position: Yes Referral Bonus Available?: Yes Relocation Assistance Available?: Yes Science Jobs: Yes
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