Recruit

A research specialist opportunity is available at the University of California, San Francisco in the Cho laboratory (cholab.ucsf.edu). The Cho lab is part of the UCSF Department of Radiation Oncology, the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy.

In the Cho Lab, we are focused on understanding the rules of engagement between cancer and the immune system. We aim to leverage fundamental, mechanistic discoveries to advance the treatment of cancer patients. Despite recent breakthroughs in cancer immunotherapeutics, there remains a significant knowledge gap particularly with respect to how interactions between cancer cells and immune cells determine treatment response vs. resistance. Our work using novel mouse and human models combined with high parameter immune profiling reveal critical molecular and cellular circuits responsible for resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors and radiation therapy, including a surprising role for T cells in exacerbating immune-suppressive inflammation engaging immune and malignant cells in the tumor microenvironment. We aim to leverage expertise in molecular engineering and high parameter, single-cell profiling to understand key interactions at the tumor-immune interface to improve and innovate immune-based cancer therapy.

The major aims of our research program are:

1. To leverage high-parameter imaging and single cell proteomics to interrogate multicellular interactions in response to immune checkpoint inhibitors
2. To interrogate consequences of stereotactic radiation on inflammatory T cell-tumor interactions
3. To develop novel molecular and genetic tools to dissect cell-cell and cell-ligand interactions in the tumor microenvironment

This research specialist will perform both wet lab and computational research as necessary for chosen projects. Responsibilities include experimental design and execution using mouse and human samples and models, scientific communication including detailed record keeping and analysis/presentation of data in lab meetings and journal clubs, and collaboration with other members of the lab as well as external collaborators. They will work closely with other lab members, participate in lab meetings, and contribute to general lab management tasks.

The specialist will also be encouraged to take advantage of other training and learning opportunities within the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, the UCSF ImmunoX Program, the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, and other related entities at UCSF. We hope this experience will prepare the applicant for future opportunities in science.

Required Qualifications:
• B.A. or B.S. (or equivalent) in biology, immunology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, bioinformatics, computer science, chemistry, or a related scientific discipline (by time of hire)
• Strong self-motivation for curiosity-driven scientific research and study
• Flexibility and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team setting
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and writing skills

Preferred Qualifications:
• Programming skills, with a preference for experience in R and Python
• Prior research experience in cancer immunology

Please apply online at https://aprecruit.ucsf.edu/JPF04833. Applicants’ materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.

See Table 24B for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $51,300-$65,900.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. 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.