Seeking a research technician to work in a dynamic and fast-paced Translational Oncology research laboratory at the Hillman Cancer Center of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The candidate will work under the direction of a physician-scientist in the Department of Radiation Oncology and will help carry out experiments investigating head and neck cancer biology and novel therapeutic combinations for head and neck cancer. The lab focuses primarily on combinations of radiation therapy with immunotherapy and/or DNA damage response inhibitors. Additional research focuses include radiation-induced oral mucositis and biomarkers of response and resistance to radiation therapy in head and neck cancer.

Main rolex will include cell culture, in vitro cell viability assays, DNA/RNA extractions, PCR, RT-PCR, Western blots, flow cytometry, and working with mice. Animal experiments will involve tumor inductions measurements, animal irradiation (in the Precision X-Rad SmART ), injections (intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, intravenous), oral gavage treatments, necropsy, tissue harvesting, and processing downstream experimental samples. This role requires close collaboration and communication with lab members and the PI. This role also includes subsequent data compilation, analysis, and reporting.

Perform PCR, RT-PCR and Western blots to characterize cell lines, tumor tissues, and mouse tissues.Mouse husbandry, including breeding/weaning mice and maintaining documentation.Inducing tumors, administering radiation therapy/drugs in mice, monitoring for tumor growth, general health, etc.Occasional weekend work for health monitoring required.Performing immunohistochemical or immunofluorescent staining of tissues and imaging/quantifying slides.Propagate cells in cell culture and perform in vitro viability assays and clonogenic assays.Perform staining and flow cytometry analysis on murine and human cells.Communicate regularly with PI.Participate in regular lab meetings.Assist in recruiting new lab members. Help maintain reagents or equipment in the laboratory.Contribute to a collegial and inclusive environment for the laboratory.Maintain and operate standard laboratory equipment.Prepare culture media, chemicals, reagents and solutions. Assist in the development and optimization of new research procedures and techniques.Prepare figures for publication and presentations.

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

Excellent communication skills, record-keeping habits, and willingness to work as part of a team are mandatory.