Research Assistant - Metastatic Breast Cancer Project

About the Position

Carnegie Mellon University's Biological Sciences Program in Doha, Qatar seeks a dedicated full-time Research Assistant for a project exploring how the extracellular matrix influences metastatic breast cancer progression. This research integrates techniques from molecular biology, cell biology, protein biochemistry, and cancer biology to elucidate gene regulatory mechanisms driving tumor spread.

The appointment is initially for 18 months with potential extension contingent on performance and funding.

Requirements and Qualifications

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a closely related field.
• Proven hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular biology methodologies.
• Competency in qPCR, miRNA biology, and Western blotting techniques.
• Excellent organizational abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong command of English in both written and verbal communication.
• Capability to work autonomously while effectively collaborating within a research group.

Preferred experience includes:

• Flow cytometry
• Molecular cloning
• RNA interference techniques such as siRNA, miRNA, or morpholinos
• Assays assessing cell migration and adhesion
• Bioinformatics skills or RNA-seq data analysis

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain mammalian cell cultures under Biosafety Level 2 protocols.
• Conduct RNA and miRNA extraction and perform both end-point and quantitative PCR assays.
• Execute flow cytometry and Western blot experiments with associated quantitative protein evaluations.
• Perform transfection and gene modulation (knockdown/overexpression) via electroporation and Lipofectamine.
• Assist in flow cytometry data collection and interpretation.
• Carry out molecular cloning practices and validate plasmids.
• Collect and analyze experimental results utilizing various analytical tools and platforms.
• Keep precise laboratory records, manage databases, and document experiments systematically.
• Provide supervision and guidance to undergraduate research assistants.
• Participate actively in laboratory meetings and contribute to scientific manuscripts, presentations, and reports.

Application Components

• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Two professional references

Employee Benefits and Additional Information

Successful candidates will enjoy comprehensive benefits, including medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, a robust retirement savings plan with employer contributions, educational tuition benefits, generous paid time off and holidays, and life and accidental death insurance.

Additional perks encompass free access to regional public transit, assistance with family childcare services, fitness center access, and more.

Carnegie Mellon is committed to equal opportunity employment supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans. The university values a holistic evaluation approach emphasizing your experience, knowledge, and unique perspective beyond academic credentials.

Work Location and Type

This position is based in Doha, Qatar, and requires full-time onsite presence under a fixed-term staff contract.