Senior Research Assistant - Cancer (Osteosarcoma)
Job No:
GC260
Location:
Darlinghurst
The Garvan Institute of Medical Research is one of Australia’s leading medical research institutes, with over 600 scientists, students and support staff. We pioneer study into the most widespread diseases affecting our community today, including cancer, degenerative and mental diseases, disorders of the immune system, diabetes and obesity, osteoporosis and other skeletal disorders.
Translational Biology of Osteosarcoma:
The focus of our research is to understand how genetically complex tumours such as osteosarcoma can evade detection and destruction by the immune system. Areas of interest include molecular sculpting of the tumour by the immune system, the role of inflammatory cytokines, immune checkpoint blockade and chemotherapy induced modification of immune response. Utilising preclinical models developed in the laboratory we aim to investigate treatment strategies, which can be tested rapidly in the clinic. Our aim is to identify new treatment options that can increase the survival rate and quality of life for people diagnosed with osteosarcoma.
We seek a highly motivated, suitably qualified individual to help investigate the role of the immune system in the development and progression of osteosarcoma. Preclinical models of osteosarcoma will be used to determine the efficacy of immune targeted therapies alone and in combination with chemotherapy. Tumours will be harvested and immune cell infiltration characterised. The research assistant will also perform in vitro cell culture, isolate DNA and RNA, carry out RT-PCR, perform Western blotting and immunohistochemistry and IN SITU hybridisation.
Responsibilities Include:
- Mouse tumour models, tumour implantation, monitoring of tumour development and growth
- Animal handling, maintenance of animals and genotyping
- Molecular biology techniques
- Mammalian cell culture
- Cell fate assays i.e proliferation, apoptosis
- Multicolour Flow Cytometry
- Western blotting and immunohistological techniques
- Participate in group discussions
- Aid other group members in developing improved techniques or procedures
- Laboratory maintenance.
The successful candidate will possess the following key skills and attributes:
- B.Sc (Hons) or equivalent in Microbiology, Biochemistry or Pathology with lab experience.
- Experience in molecular biology and cell culture is essential.
- Substantial experience using mice and experience with mouse tumour models is required
- Ability to interpret and communicate results to the supervisor and research group
- Ability to work efficiently with attention for detail
- Ability to independently and or a member of a team
- Excellent organisational and time management skills
- High quality written and oral communication skills
- Flexibility and ability to develop new skills
- Solid knowledge and experience working within a laboratory environment
- Experience using Microsoft word, Excel, Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator
- Excellent communication skills
- Good planning and organisational skills are needed
How to apply
Please submit your application online ensuring that you attach the following:
- A Cover Letter addressing the Selection Criteria above
- Your Resume including 3 Referees
- Copies of relevant qualification and your Academic Transcripts