Research Associate II - Blood Cancer Biology

at MaineHealth in Scarborough, Maine, United States

Job Description

Summary
Position Summary
The Reagan lab explores many exciting research areas, and is focused on how the bone marrow microenvironment and tumor cells interact, with the goal of curing or developing better therapies for cancer. The Research Associate in the Reagan Lab will conduct a variety of research procedures in collaboration with the principal investigator (PI), Dr. Michaela Reagan, or the PI's designee. They will assist with biological, laboratory-based research, using in vitro and in vivo cellular biology assays, and collaborate with other scientists in research in the Reagan lab or other labs. They will learn to operate research instruments and perform research assays in the laboratory daily. Attention to detail for sample preparation and handling is necessary. The Research Associate should be able to make observations, monitor experiments, collect data, facilitate study documentation, calculate and record results accurately. The scientist must be able to recognize problems or deviations from research protocols and notify appropriate personnel. The scientist should have strong critical thinking skills, and be able to master routine techniques and procedures relevant to overall goals of the lab.
The Research Associate will conduct basic, benchtop research as part of the Reagan Laboratory's team of scientists, which studies multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer. Projects will focus on characterization of the role of fatty acid binding proteins, obesity, or adipocytes, in tumor cells using methods such as qRT-PCR, western blotting, confocal microscopy, ELISAs, chemokine arrays, cell culture, bioluminescent assays, and flow cytometry. The Research Associate will need to be able to handle multiple projects and understand the literature foundational to their work. Specific responsibilities will include combinations of the following: tissue culture, gene expression analysis, biochemical analysis, animal colony maintenance and experiments, characterization of knockdown and knockout cell lines, and other types of lab work. The Research Associate will eventually be responsible for helping others in the lab and will be trained to work independently. Eventually, the scientist will be responsible for design, execution, analysis, and presentation of their own experiments and will interact directly with the PI as well as all other lab members.
Skills with coding or working with "big data" would bring extra value, as would any skills in genetic editing of cell lines. The position will involve experiments with cellular and animal models and human bone marrow biopsy samples. Prior experience with mouse research is preferred. Preferably, we are looking for basic biology, biochemistry, and math skills as part of the candidate's educational experience. A degree in science (or engineering or a related field) and educational experience in biochemistry, cell biology, molecular genetics, or related fields is preferred. Career paths might include pursuing a PhD or being promoted within the Reagan Lab. Our team's values include being detail-oriented, responsible, resilient, optimistic, self-motivated, organized, able to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment, proficient with computers, and passionate about science. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as a "growth and learning" mindset are also required.
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)
Education: Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Master's degree preferred
License/Certifications: N/A
Experience: 4+ years of relevant experience with Master's degree, 6+ years with a Bachelor's degree.
Demonstrated ability above that of a Research Associate I.
Communication skills that are sufficiently developed that the individual at this level will be able to present research results at regional and national research conferences.
Visual acuity, manual dexterity, math skills and a scientific acumen are required.
Additional Information

MaineHealth was ranked one of America's Best Large Employers in 2022 by Forbes!

MaineHealth is a not-for-profit integrated health system whose vision is, "Working together so our communities are the healthiest in America." MaineHealth consists of nine local health systems, a comprehensive behavioral health care network, diagnostic services, home health agencies, and 1,700 employed clinicians working together through the MaineHealth Medical Group. With approximately 22,000 care team members, MaineHealth provides preventive care, diagnosis and treatment to 1.1 million residents in Maine and New Hampshire. Learn more about our system at

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