Associate Research Scientist

Columbia University is a leader in biomedical research and is a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Columbia's Vagelos School of Physicians and Surgeons is amongst the top research universities and provides an outstanding intellectual environment. The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (HICCC) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center provides outstanding Biomedical Research Cores. The HICCC houses 11 core facilities or shared resources that provide services essential to basic and translational cancer research, to which the applicant will have continued full access on a 24/7 basis.

The laboratory of Dr. Michael Shen in the Department of Medicine and the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, is seeking a highly motivated Associate Research Scientist to assist scientific staff and work closely with Dr. Andrew Lenis, a surgeon-scientist in the Department of Urology. Dr. Shen's research team investigates fundamental mechanisms of mammalian development and cancer using in vivo analyses of genetically-engineered mice as well as complementary in vitro analyses of mouse and human organoid models. Current projects include understanding molecular mechanisms of cell type differentiation in the normal as well as transformed prostate epithelium, the epigenetic regulation of lineage plasticity in both bladder and prostate cancer, and the role of the tumor microenvironment in modulating treatment response. In the context of the current position, ongoing work focuses on the continuing expansion and analysis of a living biobank of patient-derived bladder tumor organoids, with the goal of improving drug response in locally advanced and metastatic bladder cancer.

Minimum Degree Required:

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Working knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols
• In-depth knowledge of laboratory equipment and research protocols
• Ability to provide routine analysis and interpretation of research data
• Extensive expertise with cell culture
• Ability to perform experiments and surgeries in mice
• Experience in experimentation and analysis of genetically-engineered mouse models of cancer
• Expertise in analyses of gene expression, epigenetic modifications, and chromatin accessibility

Other Requirements:

• Self-motivated and possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Should have outstanding organizational skills, ability to multi-task, and be able to work independently as well as within a team.
• Proactive, attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Adobe Illustrator, Prism, FlowJo and statistical software.
• Previous experience in handling and treatment of mice
• At least five years of post-doctoral experience.

Preferred Requirements:

• Experience in managing collaborative projects