Job Description
Gynecological oncology is a scientific field dedicated to studying cancers affecting the female reproductive system’s tissues and organs. Research work at the Women’s Malignancies Branch (WMB), Center for Cancer Research (CCR) is multifaceted, encompassing both translational and integrative laboratory research as well as hypothesis-driven clinical trials in gynecologic malignancies. Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death among women with gynecological cancers in the United States. Despite substantial progress in its treatment, the genetic and epidemiological heterogeneity of these cancers presents ongoing challenges. The Lee lab is at the forefront of advancing targeted therapies for ovarian carcinoma by identifying critical molecular components in DNA damage response pathways, with the goal of developing next-generation clinical trials. Ongoing projects in the lab explore novel drug combination approaches involving cell cycle checkpoint pathway inhibitors, immunotherapy, drug resistance mechanisms of DNA damage repair (DDR) inhibitors, and translational research into DDR inhibitor resistance in patients.
We are seeking two staff scientists who possess exceptional and specialized laboratory skills to conduct basic and translational research in gynecologic malignancies, specifically in drug-resistant endometrial or ovarian carcinoma. The ideal candidate will design, lead, and execute innovative research aimed at identifying and characterizing potential molecular targets in DDR and cell cycle regulatory pathways that underlie drug resistance in patients. This research will involve the use of a variety of cell lines, preclinical murine models, and patient-derived xenografts of gynecologic cancers. The findings will serve as the foundation for novel therapeutic approaches for patients with relapsed gynecologic malignancies that currently have limited or no effective therapeutic options.
Candidates must have prior experience in the field of cancer research, specifically in DDR pathways. In-depth knowledge and experience in next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques and applications, CRISPR/Cas9-based screening, and familiarity with GSEA and public databases (e.g., GEO, TCGA, COSMIC, KM plotter, etc.) are essential. Hands-on experience in designing, developing, and utilizing preclinical murine models of gynecologic cancer is crucial, as well as in in vivo techniques including necropsy, and tail vein/IP/subcutaneous injections. Proficiency in immunohistochemical/immunofluorescent microscopy (confocal and light microscopy) and analysis, along with familiarity with functional assays for DNA damage and replication fork dynamics, is required. Successful candidates will be expected to initiate and collaborate with researchers at CCR and outside pharma companies, develop data-driven analysis, and communicate results and findings using effective visualization and imaging techniques.
This position is subject to a background investigation. The NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.
Qualifications and Job Details
Required and Preferred Skills
- A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in a relevant biological science field.
- Extensive experience in molecular biology, cell biology, next-generation sequencing, mutational analysis, computational techniques, and genetic screening using CRISPR-based approaches.
- In-depth experience with murine models.
- Exceptional written and verbal skills.
- Ability to work cohesively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
- A strong publication record in the relevant field in high-impact factor journals.
- Experience in genomics, bioinformatics, and proteomics with expertise in data analysis and program development.
About the NCI Center for Cancer Research
The Center for Cancer Research (CCR) is home to nearly 250 basic and clinical research groups located on two campuses just outside of Washington, D.C. CCR is part of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and makes up the largest component of the research effort at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Centrally supported by long-term funding and a culture of complete intellectual freedom, CCR scientists are able to pursue the most important and challenging problems in cancer research. We collaborate with academic and commercial partners and advocacy groups across the world in efforts to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer and HIV/AIDS. The CCR research portfolio covers the full spectrum of biological and biomedical research. Our work ranges from basic to translational and clinical, and our clinical trials are conducted in the NIH Clinical Center, the world’s largest hospital dedicated to clinical research that offers a robust infrastructure to support CCR’s patients on an estimated 250 open studies. The success of CCR is grounded in an exceptionally strong discovery research program that provides the foundation for the seamless translation of insights from bench to bedside. Read more about CCR, the benefits of working at CCR and hear from our staff on their CCR experiences.
Bethesda
Bethesda is one of the most highly educated communities in the United States and has a nationally renowned school system. The city is a thriving suburban center close to Washington, D.C., and home to many restaurants, retailers and a flourishing arts and entertainment district.