Research Associate II, Imaging Mass Cytometry Lab (req2063)

Company: Frederick National Laboratory
Location: Frederick
Posted on: September 12, 2021

Job Description:

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community and provides dedicated support to NCI's intramural Center for Cancer Research (CCR). The dedicated units provide expertise in electron microscopy, protein characterization, mass spectrometry, protein expression, optical microscopy, and genomics. These research efforts are an integral part of CCR at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR), where CRTP scientists work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Research Associate-II to join our scientific team working with theImaging Mass Cytometry laboratory(IMC) laboratory funded by The NCI'sCenter for Strategic Scientific Initiatives (CSSI)at FNLCR. Our team works with several intramural and extramural research groups that are interested in employing IMC in their projects. In the IMC technology, we stain the fresh-frozen and FFPE tissue slides from the mice models and clinical specimens with up to 40 different metal-labeled antibodies and laser ablate these slides to achieve high-dimensional imaging data at subcellular resolution. Soon we are expanding our capabilities to process clinical samples in suspension using Helios, a "CyTOF" technology. We are also working with the multiple proteomics profiling of rare Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) and immune cells to understand the mutational switchover, drug resistance, and metastatic spread of disease. The prospective RA-II candidate will work with Scientists, project managers, and another Research Associate in the group to perform but not limited to the following tasks:

Prospective RA II candidate will work with the existing team of RA II and Scientist II to perform but not limited to the following duties:

• Perform assay development for the immunofluorescent, immunohistochemistry, and metal labeled antibody staining for the specific scientific projects involving cell lines, xenografts, and clinical samples such as blood and tissue biopsies
• Contribute to establishing (design, test, and write) new or modify/optimize existing detailed technical SOPs
• Metal label antibody conjugation and validation of metal-labeled antibodies with known positive and negative control cell lines and tissue samples
• Perform QC checks of unconjugated antibodies using SDS-PAGE and labeled antibodies using suspension CyTOF
• Process the clinical specimens with CyTOF technology: Helios and/or Hyperion imaging system
• Document experimental results in a reproducible manner
• Perform weekly and monthly maintenance schedules of the Helios and Hyperion instruments
• Culture mammalian cell lines and maintain frozen and liquid nitrogen repositories
• Manage orders and switching tanks of liquified gasses (Helium and Argon)
• Maintain and stock up the metal labeled antibodies required for the individual projects
• Maintain communication with different collaborators, share data with them, and address their concerns
• Report findings to supervisor and scientific collaborators in weekly meetings
• Assist other members in the team for data analysis using statistical and programming tools
• Order, organize and keep lab supplies and comply with all safety procedures and policies

• Possession of Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience
• Experience with IF, IHC, Flow cytometry, and ICC staining and/or operating light and fluorescent microscopes
• Previous experience working with blood and other clinical specimens
• Proven capabilities of using various analytical instruments in the laboratory
• Ability to maintain precise and accurate record keeping
• Ability to develop and optimize new assays under the direction of the lab supervisor
• Working knowledge of MS office tools and basic statistical analysis
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

• Possession of Master's degree in Biomedical Research from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• Four years of relevant experience in an academic research laboratory or industry setting
• Experience working with multiplex mass cytometry imaging technologies such as IMC, CODEX, and MIBI-Ionpath
• Basic knowledge of Python and/or R for statistics
• Experience with analyzing high dimensional imaging data with histoCAT and/or Halo
• Ability to solve problems independently with minimal oversight
• Ability to pick up new skills/techniques quickly and troubleshoot
• Strong oral and written communication skills

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations

Keywords: Frederick National Laboratory, Frederick , Research Associate II, Imaging Mass Cytometry Lab (req2063), Other , Frederick, Maryland