The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), Institute for Genome Sciences (IGS) is recruiting for a Research Fellow. The research in Dr. Gaykalova’s lab implements creative, innovative, and systematic studies of head and neck cancer to reach a new understanding of cancer biology and improve disease detection and treatment. The selected candidate will assist biological and computational scientists in laboratories by setting up, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations, recording and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. Responsibilities include the management of laboratory operations, safety compliance procedures, and purchase of chemical supplies and equipment, as well as the opportunity to work extensively on cutting-edge cancer research projects that involve genomic and epigenomic hypotheses. 

Primary Duties:
•    Perform the standard research tests and experimental protocols such as PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, DNA/RNA/protein/chromatin extraction and purification, and sample preparation in anticipation of sequencing and other downstream analyses. 
•    Troubleshoot existing and adopt new protocols for experimental needs
•    Participate in the design of research studies. Compile, analyze, and interpret research data using various relevant computer software applications.
•    Write the research and review papers and contribute to grant writing and the peer-review process
•    Perform in vitro (e.g., cell culture) and in vivo (e.g., animal work) experimentation, which will all be following USDA, AALAC, and University guidelines. 
•    Follow universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers and maintain sterility when performing experiments. 
•    Follow University and laboratory policies
•    Comply with biohazard/radiation safety standards through proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents
•    Complete annual University biohazard/universal precaution/radiation safety training as appropriate. 
•    Operate basic laboratory equipment such as a centrifuge, pH meter, analytical balance, spectrophotometer, light microscope, biological safety cabinets, and more. 
•    Monitor inventory in the lab and order supplies and equipment in accordance with established policies and procedures, and count orders upon receipt.
•    Perform other duties as assigned, including but not limited to:
Onboarding of new hires and students
Training new hires, summer students, and rotational students
Communicating with collaborators both within and outside of UMB
Preparing for and sending shipments of samples or other materials to collaborators
 

Education: Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or other fields related to laboratory research.

Experience: Two (2) years of previous research and laboratory experience are required, including work outside the undergraduate laboratory courses.
 
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of position requirements. 
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Software (e.g., Office, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook)
Skilled in effectively using applicable technologies and tools for data entry extraction. 
Ability to effectively communicate verbally and written ideas, facts, and results.
Ability to work independently upon training and cooperatively with others.
Ability to demonstrate, understand, apply, and adhere to the UMB Core Values of Respect and Integrity, Well-being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery.

Knowledge of cellular biology, cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, and epigenetics is preferred

Supervisory Experience: NA

Certification/Licensure: NA

Other: 
The ideal candidate will have some prior research experience (in any related ?eld) and interests in research on cancer biology. It may require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials, and/or ionizing radiation. 

To be considered
Upload your current CV/resume, a cover letter, transcripts, and a list of names and contact information for three references with your resume.
In your cover letter (1 page), please address the following: (1) what prior research experience you’ve had; (2) what relevant coursework in cancer biology, cell biology, or other related ?elds you have taken; (3) what questions/topics in cancer biology or cell biology are most interesting to you; (4) why you feel you are a strong candidate for the position.
The fellowship includes a $35,568 training stipend.
If you have questions about the application or position, you can contact Alexa Anderson (Alexa.Anderson@som.umaryland.edu).