Research Opportunities in Mechanistic Cancer Research

OverviewScheduled Hours: 40As a curiosity-driven cancer biology lab, we are broadly interested in uncovering novel cancer targets with the overarching goal of improving patient outcome. Currently, we are focusing on dissecting the complex molecular mechanisms governing genome stability which plays an important role in cancer initiation, progression, and treatment response. Our studies center around two multi-functional proteins, the actin-binding protein Profilin-1 and the AAA+ ATPase p97/VCP. Both are essential proteins with well-known functions in the cytoplasm, but play important yet poorly understood roles in the nucleus. Our recently published (e.g., Zhu et al., 2022 Nature Communications; Zhu et al., 2021 Cell Reports; Zhu et al., 2020 Cell Reports; Wang et al., 2021 Cancers) and currently ongoing work link nuclear Profilin-1 and p97/VCP to fundamentally important cellular processes including transcription, DNA replication, and DNA damage repair and signaling. Our findings highlight the importance of subcellular localization and post-translational modification in the regulation of multi-functional proteins such as Profilin-1 and p97-VCP, and implicate new ways to target their cancer-specific “moonlighting” functions. We believe that mechanistic insights from such studies can reveal hidden “Achilles heels” of cancer cells, and guide the development of novel and personalized treatments.Various standard and specialized molecular, cellular, and animal procedures are performed in the lab. Primary Duties & ResponsibilitiesPerform standard and specialized molecular and cellular biology procedures in the lab, including cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, Western blot, immunoprecipitation, PCR, cloning, and genetic mouse models.Work with mouse xenograft models, DNA fiber assays, and proximity ligation assays as part of cancer biology investigations.Contribute to experiments examining the roles of Profilin-1 and p97/VCP in transcription, DNA replication, and DNA damage signaling within cellular and nuclear contexts.Collaborate with the team to interpret data, optimize experimental conditions, and assist with manuscript preparation as needed. Working ConditionsThis position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals. Salary RangeBase pay is commensurate with experience. “The statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification.” Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time. Required QualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.Certifications: No specific certification is required for this position.Work Experience: No specific work experience is required for this position.Skills: Not ApplicableDriver\'s License: A driver\'s license is not required for this position. More About This JobCandidates with additional education and experience are encouraged to apply. Preferred QualificationsEducation: No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.Certifications: No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.Work Experience: No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.Skills: Communication, Laboratory Research, Organizing, Recordkeeping, Working Independently QuestionsFor frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to the External Applicant FAQ. AccommodationIf you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request. All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Pre-Employment ScreeningAll external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening. Benefits & EEOBenefits Statement: Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit the university benefits site for a summary of benefits.EEO Statement: Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. The University is dedicated to building an inclusive environment and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr