Research Associate 3

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Department Specific Functions

The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is currently seeking a Cancer Imaging and Modeling Specialist - Research Associate 3 who will join the Cancer Modeling Shared Resource. This translational Facility provides qualified, cost effective and state-of-the art services to foster cancer research advancements and accelerate the discovery of tailored antitumor therapies. We are seeking a dynamic individual who would like to participate in the creation and development of new service lines in a busy and fast-paced environment related to preclinical noninvasive imaging modalities for the diagnosis and evaluation of the responses to treatment in a variety of disease models. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing complex noninvasive imaging procedures within the specialized scientific service core laboratory as a member of a high-performance project team. Areas of responsibility also include cancer modeling and imaging in vivo and related activities. He or she will be responsible for the supporting the development of cancer modeling and imaging services, providing those in an accurate and timely manner, and maintaining proper precise records of all tests done in accordance with established policies, procedures and regulations. The successful candidate will also develop, implement, and update the procedures required to accomplish research goals and preclinical mouse model-related service provision under the direction of Dr. Bilbao.

The following job description reflects additional support that this position must provide. Specific responsibilities of the position include and are not limited to:

Facilitate team workflows in collaboration with team members to ensure that tasks, priorities, and goals are completed and coordinated with management. Perform all aspects of operation in the cancer modeling and noninvasive imaging area, including supporting experiments related to mouse model generation and characterization, devising treatment protocols (like toxicology and PK/PD) and to the evaluation of response to treatments and histopathological analysis. Prepare and maintain records and reports of training, instrumentation, quality control and compliance. Keep accurate computer research records, maintain/update data in computer-based applications/databases, record experimental data, prepare data for analysis, and contribute to the analysis, as well as maintaining records for quality control and quality assurance. Perform all noninvasive imaging-related techniques, including MRI, PET/CT, ultrasound, fluorescence and bioluminescence, as well as microscopy/digital pathology. Develop, adapt and implement new lab and modeling procedures. Work independently and be able to solve technical and scientific problems. Monitor timelines and track study/project performance, including quality of the work and turnaround time, and analyze the successful completion of projects. Implement QA procedures. Prepare online request form and materials for brochures and reports, as required by the study/project. Review documents to generate reports, including the implementation of a tracking and laboratory information system. Review and track customers' requests, medical reports, and samples, including the supervision of sample access, retrieval, and inventory control. Meet budgetary objectives and adjust project scope, project schedule and project costs based on project constraints and financial analysis. Bill for services and help to develop service fees. Assist researchers and lab members with/while establishing, developing, and performing appropriate imaging protocols using advanced techniques to prepare animals for examination and analysis. Plan the day-to-day workload by setting an appropriate work pace, complete work assignments, identifying and solving problems, and define appropriate completion times. Distribute and balance workload and tasks (including model generation, experimental designs, treatments and histopathological analysis) with established workflows; make the necessary adjustments to accomplish the workload in accordance with established priorities to ensure timely accomplishment of assigned tasks. Schedule coverage for the subsections within the work unit, adjusting in lieu days and annual leave as needed. Assist with lab management duties; ensure equipment is operated and maintained according to manufacturer's instructions; ensure supplies are adequate for the work to be performed. May train or guide the work of students and other employees. Schedule and support other lab members on a variety of additional routine technical laboratory procedures in molecular biology, cell culture and animal-related techniques, like genotyping, prepare and administer compounds to mice, observing and recording physical signs of rodent health, collection of routine diagnostic samples, necropsy and tissue and organ harvest, rodent surgical procedures, etc. Adhere to University and unit-level policies and procedures; safeguard University assets; participate in university/outside educational training as required. Perform other duties as requested.

CORE JOB FUNCTIONS

Maintains daily operations and performs procedures related to new and on-going research projects. Assists with ordering, purchasing, and maintenance of all required reagents and supplies for laboratory activities, and monitors and maintains inventory of supplies and stocks. Assists with the maintenance of institutional biosafety and animal care protocols, laboratory safety records, and standard operating procedures. Performs and assists other research staff with standard laboratory techniques. Develops, adapts, and implements new laboratory procedures. Records, organizes, and writes up experimental results for submission of manuscripts and for scientific presentations. Keeps abreast of latest literature in the field and searches for references to technical problems. Maintains current knowledge of the methods and techniques related to the specific field of research. Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

Department Specific Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's Degree in relevant field.

Experience:

The successful candidate must have a minimum of five years animal research experience performing the routine as well as the specialized technical procedures mentioned above. Experience with analytical techniques is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes:

• Proactively helpful in all aspects of the job, whether it involves communication, training, reporting, or project management.
• Mechanical ability and dexterity when performing the different lab and animal-related techniques.
• Ability to understand cancer biology.
• Skill in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail.
• Ability to understand and follow specific instructions and procedures.
• Excellent computer skills and proficiency with general and specialized data analysis software and databases is required.
• Knowledge of the use and maintenance of laboratory facilities and/or specialized equipment.
• Knowledge of molecular biology procedures, general laboratory operations and/or procedures, as well as knowledge of supplies, equipment, and/or services ordering.
• Self-motivated individual with a strong desire to learn.
• Exceptional critical thinking and strong analytical, problem solving, and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. He or she is expected to interact with a variety of staff (facility team, users, and other related facilities) in a professional, polite, and positive attitude.
• Excellent English (both verbal and written) required.
• Ability to shift focus between multiple projects, organize and prioritize work under pressure while meeting deadlines.
• Excellent time-management skills.
• Ability to work evenings, nights, and weekends as necessary.
• Commitment to the University's core values.
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team under the direction of the Director of the Facility.
• Ability to perform other duties as assigned.

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The University of Miami offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, tuition remission and more.

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