Associate Investigator: Cancer Genetics, Epigenetics and Biomarkers

Our consultants are recruiting globally for highly motivated Associate Investigators to join a choice team of researchers at a world renowned academic Cancer Research Laboratory in Dallas, TX, USA. The laboratory headed by a prominent PhD focusing on understanding the interplay between genetic and epigenetic alterations in gastrointestinal and other human cancers. Our client is a multidisciplinary research group, undertaking a number of collaborative projects involving their Research Institute and large international consortia.

Location: Dallas, Texas USA

Research Description

This position involves studies surrounding work in the field of epigenetics and non-coding RNA research.  More specifically, the projects will involve any/all of the following research focuses.  Exploration of the role of aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs (miRNA, lncRNAs, snoRNAs, circRNAs, piRNAs etc.) in colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, esophageal, hepatocellular and other cancers.  Establishment of innovative methodologies for the development of epigenetic and non-coding RNAs- based biomarkers for the earlier diagnosis, prognosis and predictive responses to chemotherapy in gastrointestinal and non-GI cancers.

A better understanding of the translational and clinical role of genetic and epigenetic signatures in cancers. Interest and/or experience with exosomal and microvesicular biomarkers.  Understanding the genetic basis of early-onset and familial cancers.  Chemoprevention of cancers using dietary nutraceuticals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other drugs. Molecular mechanisms of cancer chemotherapy, stem cells, chemoresistance and chemosensitization. Gut microbiome, and its influence on gastrointestinal cancers.

Job Description

An ideal candidate should have a strong background in molecular biology, and relevant experience in cancer genetics and epigenetics.  The candidates with prior hands-on experience in NGS-based platforms (Ion Torrent PGM sequencer, MiSeq/HiSeq, RRBS, ChIP-Seq, MeDip and RNASeq etc.), and other array-based platforms will be given preference. Knowledge and experience with various bioinformatics and biostatistical analysis tools will be highly preferred.

The Associate Investigator is a high-level position for an individual who is a self-sustaining Scientist and has achieved recognition in his/her field of endeavor.  He/she heads a laboratory that focuses its research in an area that is compatible with goals of the Research and meets with the approval of the Center for Cancer Research Director.  The Associate Investigator is responsible for hiring, training and management of his/her lab personnel and for assuring that they work according to the Research standards.  While the Associate Investigator may receive supplemental funds from organizational Research, it is the Associate Investigator’s responsibility to obtain grants that will support his/her research and to produce data that is worthy of publication in leading scientific journals and has patent potential.

The Associate Investigator is a member of the Research faculty and plays a role in the continued growth and development of the Institute.  He/she may be asked to serve on committees, develop collaborations or act as a liaison with external departments. An Associate Investigator may be promoted to the level of Investigator once he/she has obtained at least three grants of a specified nature and/or achieved recognition as a leader in his/her field.

Job Functions

Heads a Laboratory performing research in an area compatible with the goals of the organization and approved by the Director, Center for Gastrointestinal Cancer Research. Is responsible for obtaining and sustaining grants, awards, and other financial support that will be used for salaries, supplies, and other expenses associated with performance of his/her project(s).  Hires and oversees the training and supervision of all personnel who work in his/her Laboratory, assuring the safe and proper performance of experiments, including operations of all necessary equipment and apparatus according to standards.

Is responsible for the scientific integrity of all data generated and assures that the data is recorded in laboratory notebooks according to standards.  Obtains and maintains in good standing, all licenses and certifications necessary for the performance of his/her research project, such as Animal Care/Handling certificates, etc. Obtains and maintains in good standing, all Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocol approvals, etc., needed for the performance of his/her project(s).  Obtains publications in the leading scientific journals in his/her field. Produces patentable data. Is expected to be an invited leader at major International conferences, write journal review articles, book chapters, or other solicited scientific papers.

Is responsible for the proper use and management of funds received to support his/her research projects. Attends and participates when possible, in National and International scientific conferences, workshops, programs, etc., to increase knowledge, present data, and promote the presence of Institute for the purpose of establishing collaborations and recruitment.  Serves as a Research faculty member and participates in the growth and development of the Institute by contributing ideas and expertise that will increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the Institute’s operations. May be required to serve as the Department’s Safety Officer, member of a committee, or act as a liaison to the organizations Departments or external facilities.

Minimum Requirements

The candidate should possess the following criteria: 1) PhD, MD/PhD 2) Evidence of first author peer-reviewed publications and prior grant funding success, 3) Prior molecular and/or cancer biology experience and evidence of project development, 4) Excellent communication and writing skills.  Prospective candidates should be highly motivated, enthusiastic about science, with an ability to think creatively and independently. Candidate should demonstrate a strong track record of publication, have good organizational, written, and oral communication skills, and be able to work independently and in a team environment. 

**OTHER RELATED POSITIONS: Post Doctoral Fellows, Assistant Cancer Researchers and the requirements can be found listed on this website now. 

Well-qualified candidates please forward a current CV/resume along with cover outlining key qualifying experiences, compensation and geographical preferences, three (3) professional references in complete confidence to:  

Debra Hartmann, Division Group Manager dhartmann@pailingroup.com                                                                                   

Pailin Group Professional Search Consultants Retained executive search consultants worldwide www.pailingroup.com

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