Research Associate-Hematology

We are seeking a highly motivated Researcher 1 to support research at the intersection of hematology, immunology, and cancer biology. This position is well suited for individuals with strong wet lab expertise who are eager to apply multi-omic approaches to biologically and clinically meaningful questions, with an appreciation for complementary quantitative or computational methods. The successful candidate will contribute to studies of hematopoietic differentiation, leukemia‑immune interactions, and the development of immune‑based therapeutic strategies, including CAR‑T cell approaches. Key Responsibilities Wet Lab Research & Experimental Execution (30%) Design, plan, and execute research projects focused on hematopoiesis, leukemia, and tumor immunology. Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, RT-PCR, cloning, bacterial transformation, plasmid isolation, transfection, viral transduction, and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. Conduct bone marrow and blood-based assays, including collection, processing, enrichment, and analysis of hematopoietic, leukemic, and immune cell populations. Perform high-dimensional flow cytometry (panel design, staining, acquisition, and analysis) and support T cell functional assays, including CAR‑T cell generation and immune effector testing. Carry out immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, tissue culture, and related assays to support mechanistic studies. Computational & Data Analysis (30%) Analyze and integrate multi-omic datasets (including bulk and single-cell sequencing, epigenomic, and spatial data). Curate and analyze public datasets and clinical cohorts. Perform statistical analysis, data visualization, and figure generation for manuscripts and presentations. Collaborate closely with experimental researchers to interpret results and inform experimental design, and develop reproducible, well-documented analysis workflows. Animal Models & In Vivo Studies (5%) Participate in murine models of leukemia and cancer, including injections, monitoring, and collection of bone marrow and tissues for downstream analyses. Scientific Communication & Interpretation (20%) Interpret experimental data, review relevant scientific literature, and contribute to manuscripts, figures, grant applications, and presentations for scientific meetings. Laboratory Operations & Team Support (15%) Maintain accurate experimental records and data organization. Support laboratory operations, including inventory management, ordering, and equipment maintenance. Train and assist research staff, participate in lab meetings, and contribute to troubleshooting and protocol optimization. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a related field. Research laboratory experience with hematopoietic, leukemia, or immune-based assays and standard molecular/cellular techniques. Experience working with human or murine blood and bone marrow samples in BSL-2 settings. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively. Commitment to scientific rigor, integrity, and reproducibility. Successful completion of a background check. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in a related field or equivalent research experience. Experience with bone marrow‑derived cells, hematopoietic stem/progenitor assays, or leukemia models. Proficiency in high-dimensional flow cytometry, including panel design and analysis. Experience with T cell assays, viral transduction, CAR‑T approaches, or gene editing. Familiarity with murine models of leukemia or immune response. Strong organizational skills and adaptability in a fast‑paced research environment. Key Attributes Detail-oriented, with careful adherence to protocols. Strong willingness to learn new techniques and adapt to unfamiliar workflows. Reliable, organized, and able to work both independently and collaboratively. Positive responsiveness to feedback. Positive attitude, scientific curiosity, and motivation to grow in a translational research environment. Additional Information The OSUCCC – James is the only cancer program in the United States that features a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center aligned with a nationally ranked academic medical center and a freestanding cancer hospital on the campus of one of the nation’s largest public universities. The Laboratory of Dr. Maria Velegraki is a part of the OSUCCC – James Pelotonia Institute for Immuno‑Oncology (PIIO). The PIIO is a comprehensive bench-to-bedside research initiative focused on harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer at all levels —from prevention to treatment and survivorship. Dr. Velegraki’s research focuses on characterizing mechanisms that drive Treg lineage fate and control Treg suppressive functions. Understanding these processes will advance knowledge of Treg-mediated tolerance and its role in the tumor microenvironment, ultimately informing novel strategies for cancer immunotherapy. Function: Research and Scholarship Sub Function: Research Career Band: Individual Contributor - Specialized Career Level: S1 Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process. The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability. #J-18808-Ljbffr Wexner Medical Center