The Research Specialist will work at the Hillman Cancer Center in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery. Research will be conducted in the laboratory of Dr. Adam Soloff. Our team’s research focuses on immunity of the lung and how pulmonary immune responses to environmental respiratory exposures lead to lung disease and lung cancer. Current projects examine why lung cancer rates in women who never smoked are rapidly increasing as well as disease susceptibility in Veterans with deployment-related respiratory exposures. Investigations range from basic research to translational and clinical studies, with an emphasis on improving patient care. The ideal candidate would have an interest in pulmonary immunology, cancer immunology, long-term effects of environmental exposures, and harnessing macrophages and other immune cells to develop novel treatments for lung diseases. Work with cell cultures, mouse models of disease, processing patient samples, flow cytometry with computational analysis, immunofluorescence microscopy, ELISA, RT-PCR, and Western blot is expected. Our goal is to develop and run novel clinical trials based on sound basic science research.

Responsibilities will include performing experiments, data analysis, and contributing to the preparation of manuscripts for publication, as well as routine laboratory maintenance. Opportunities to present research findings at lab, local, and/or national meetings will be provided.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Conduct research examining pulmonary immunity involving the use of patient samples and small laboratory animals including processing fluids and tissues; administering exposures and drugs to animals; perform cellular, chemical, and gene expression analysis of blood and tissue samples; techniques used will include flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence imaging, RT-PCR, ELISA, with additional techniques as needed. The individual will identify and prepare specimens. The individual will perform a variety of laboratory experiments such as histology, flow cytometry, molecular techniques, gene sequencing, and related technical functions, testing, troubleshooting, and analysis. Ensures conformity to specifications. (70%).

Maintain laboratory notebooks/records related to protocols, policy, and regulations. Keeps detailed, accurate, and timely data and log books. Organizes and documents results. (15%)

Basic laboratory organization: maintain laboratory instruments, supplies, and equipment as needed. Maintains, calibrates, cleans and tests sterility of laboratory equipment. Operates and maintains applicable laboratory equipment for job functions. Oversees supply management: ordering, procurement, tracking estimates, and receiving items. (15%)