Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Melissa Mavers studies graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), an immune-mediated complication of stem cell transplantation. Through transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional analyses of immune regulatory cells, the Mavers Lab seeks to enhance understanding of the role of immunosuppressive cells in GVHD. Her laboratory has the goal of using a bench-to-bedside approach for developing a cellular therapy for GVHD, engineering viable approaches to prevention and cure.

The successful candidate will assist with research studies, experiments, preparation of material, and documentation. This work will primarily involve the investigation of a type of innate lymphocyte, the invariant natural killer T cell, which is of interest due to its potential ability to suppress GVHD and promise as a therapeutic. Analyses will include flow cytometry/fluorescence activated cell sorting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, other bead-based and colorimetric assays, and RNA-sequencing; therefore, this position requires excellent laboratory record keeping skills and may include basic data analysis. Previous tissue culture experience is required, in addition to experience in at least one of the aforementioned assays, with preference given to flow cytometry. Additionally, due to the significance of mouse model experiments for the Mavers Lab, training in murine laboratory techniques and models will also be available. Please note that willingness to work with mice will be required for this role, though prior experience is not necessary.

The Mavers lab strives to provide an environment of growth and support alongside its inclusive culture. We are focused on producing high quality science and are seeking a self-motivated individual capable of performing intricate experiments who is looking to grow and contribute in a highly collaborative environment. Further technical training opportunities range from basic to advanced microbiology and analysis techniques including, but not limited to, cloning, PCR, and viral transduction, as well as the assays listed in detail above. Dr. Mavers also provides career mentorship, opportunities for authorship to all contributing individuals, potential opportunities for independent work, and an overall value towards growing your own scientific acumen and professional repertoire.

Job Description

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Conducts research experiments and assays.
• Prepares murine tissue and human tissue for cell culture. Prepares cell culture reagents and maintains cell cultures. 
• Manipulates cell cultures for experimentation, including buffy coat preparation, magnetic bead-based cell enrichment, cell expansion, cell differentiation, and plating cells for functional assays.
• Runs assays with readouts in one or more of the following formats: RNA-sequencing, flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and other bead-based and colorimetric assays.
• Generates lentivirus and transduces cells (may include cloning).
• Maintains mouse colonies and participates in murine experiments.
• Performs data entry and maintains data files on research for future publication.
• Evaluates research results, reporting findings and discussing project outcomes with involved staff.
• Coordinates research project with other institutions and investigators.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Participates in developing hypotheses to be tested and ways of testing it.
• Assists with ordering of necessary equipment and supplies for use in the lab.
• Performs literature searches on specified topics.

Working Conditions

This 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.

Preferred Qualifications

Demonstrated ability to implement general laboratory procedures, conduct research and record findings, with focus on pursuit of advanced education in field.

Required Qualifications

Equivalent of a bachelorâ™s degree with two to three years of experience in laboratory operations.

Grade

R07-H

Salary Range

$16.24 - $27.63 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Accommodation

If 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 at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening

All 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 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 our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA 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 Universityâ™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.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment â“ fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

Applicant Instructions

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