Assistant Researcher

Assistant Researcher University of California Los Angeles Requisition Number: JPF10010 The Assistant Researcher in the Translational Thoracic Oncology laboratory of Dr. Burt will perform research under his guidance, with opportunity to progress as an independent researcher. The primary study is investigating a novel platform of mass spectrometry (the MSPen) for the rapid diagnosis of lung cancer and rapid determination of clinically relevant driver mutations that decide systemic therapy (which currently require 10‑14 days for results). The project extends to rapid intraoperative diagnosis of lung cancer and rapid assessment of microscopic surgical margins, a process that is currently antiquated, labor‑intensive, and time‑consuming. Novel MSPen probes for minimally invasive surgery and endoscopy are being designed, printed, and tested. In addition to lung cancer, MSPen projects in esophageal cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma have been initiated to solve similar conceptual and technological gaps, and potentially accelerate patient care. In addition to this MSPen project, a second project of our laboratory investigates biomarkers of response and resistance to immune checkpoint blockade in malignant pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer. Both projects are funded by the NIH. The Assistant Researcher will also be responsible for participating in the development of the Translational Thoracic Oncology research laboratory, in collaboration with Dr. Burt. Dr. Burt was recruited to UCLA as Professor and Chief of the Division of Thoracic Surgery one year ago and his laboratory is established, stocked, staffed, and active (including the MSPen platform). The Assistant Researcher will work closely with Dr. Burt to prepare manuscripts for publication in scientific journals, prepare and present abstracts at national and international scientific meetings, and assist with the preparation of grant proposals. The Assistant Researcher may also help supervise other researchers in the lab including project scientists, post‑doctoral scholars, and graduate and undergraduate students. The Assistant Researcher will have opportunity for advancement. Experience in proteomics and/or tumor immunology is desired. The Assistant Researcher position is a non‑Senate position for 12‑months in the first instance. Step is commensurate with experience. Start Date: 12/2024 Specific Responsibilities Responsibilities of this position include study design, data acquisition, statistical computation, literature review, and manuscript/grant preparation. Ability to work independently on scientific projects. Assist with preparation of grant proposals. Preparation of manuscripts for publication in scientific journals. Required to communicate well with other scientists at this and other institutions. Candidates should have 3 years of experience in translational research in an academic setting or equivalent. Experience in proteomics and/or tumor immunology is desired. The candidate will report directly to the Principal Investigator, work closely with them, and will successfully carry out experiments and analyze the data generated with minimal supervision. Will work closely with the Principal Investigator to further develop a growing translational research laboratory in the Division of Thoracic Surgery. Ability to handle several projects simultaneously. Ability to help and train various personnel in platforms relevant to our projects and make significant contributions to the design and execution of other laboratory members’ experiments. Supervision of undergraduates, graduate students and new postdoctoral trainees in the lab. Qualifications Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent degree and possess 3 years of experience in translational research within an academic setting or equivalent. Experience in proteomics and/or tumor immunology is desired. Candidates should be able to work independently, communicate effectively, and contribute to manuscript, grant, and project development. EEO Statement The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. For the complete University of California nondiscrimination and affirmative action policy, see: UC Nondiscrimination & Aff… #J-18808-Ljbffr Inside Higher Ed