HJF is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow for the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU)-Center for Prostate Disease Research (CPDR) located in Rockville, Maryland. HJF provides programmatic support services to CPDR. The Post-doctoral Fellow will have demonstrated experience and strong publication record in cancer genomics/genetics or cancer biology, including genome sequencing and data analyses.The incumbent will work as a member of the multi-disciplinary group under the over all directions of the Scientific Director and designee.
The USU - CPDR is an Integrated Translational Prostate Disease Research Center with a comprehensive inter-disciplinary research program to study prostate diseases in the tri-service military health care system with key collaborating partners at the WRNMMC and the JPC. The CPDR was established in 1991 by the United States Congress and has developed comprehensive bio-specimen banks and multi-center patient database. The collaborative expertise and resources of the clinical and basic science researchers of the Center has led to ground-breaking discoveries which are enhancing early detection, prognosis and the treatments for prostate diseases. These achievements have propelled its reputation as one of the leading prostate disease research centers in the nation.
Performs and manages state-of-the-art genomic/transcriptomic profiling experiments and data analyses in the context of DNA Damage Repair Genes (DDRG) in prostate cancer. Manages and meets the time lines of tasks as defined by the Co-supervisors. Works in close collaboration with the USU-The American Genome Center (TAGC). Develops and/or acquires new technologies from other laboratories as needed for specific projects. Develops high impact scientific publications that will help the renewal of the grant supporting this project. Technologies may include but not limited to isolation of DNA and RNA from human specimens (including frozen and FFPE tissue, blood/serum and urine); preparation of sequencing libraries for genomic and transcriptomic profiling (WGS, WES, RNASeq) according to established protocols; bioinformatics analyses of genomics and gene expression data; and validation by targeted sequencing, quantitative PCR, FISH, immuno-histochemistry and other relevant technologies. Applies bioinformatics approaches for analysis of genomic data (including whole genome, exome and RNA sequence) in an effort to identify and characterize novel genomic alterations, including mutations and polymorphism (SNPs), that contribute to prostate cancer development and progression. Works as a member of the multidisciplinary team of cancer biologists, medical-and bio-informaticians, pathologists, urologists, and epidemiologists. Designs, develops, executes and implements scientific research. Maintains detailed electronic records of experiments under CPDR standard operation procedures (SOPs). Designs and executes experiments in cell culture and animal models to validate the function of novel genomic alterations, develop relevant collaboration if required. Strictly adheres to laboratory and institutional SOPs established by CPDR, JPC and WRNMMC. Prepares project progress reports, scientific presentations and manuscripts for publication. Coordinates all regulatory requirements for the assigned research projects. Provides collaborative assistance to other research scientists that require the incumbent's expertise. Performs other research support activities as required by the Scientific Director or designee. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Strong knowledge and hands on experience in cancer genomics/genetics and cancer biology, including genomic/transcriptomic/proteomic profiling and data analyses; ability to analyze and interpret data and bring new ideas and technology; ability to draft manuscripts. Excellent communication skills, ability to work independently. Ability to troubleshoot technical procedures.
Minimum Education/Training Requirements: PhD in cancer genomics/genetics, cancer biology, molecular and cell biology or related scientific discipline. Strong track record of relevant publications.
Minimum Experience: 0-2 years of postdoctoral experience in cancer genomics/genetics, cancer biology, molecular and cell biology or related scientific discipline.
Physical Capabilities: Long periods of standing and sitting; intricate work with hands; carrying of light to moderately heavy laboratory equipment.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls: Provide guidance to junior laboratory staff, research assistants and graduate and college students.
Work Environment: Laboratory environment may involve working with bio-hazardous materials and may require working evenings and weekends.