Openings
The Maher lab is currently accepting graduate students from DBBS (Computational and Systems Biology, Molecular Genetics and Genomics, Molecular Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, and Human and Statistical Genetics) and the Department of Biomedical Engineering.
We are also hiring for the following positions:
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Computational Biology/Cancer Genomics Postdoctoral Scholar
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Cancer Biology Postdoctoral Scholar
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LncRNA Tumor Biology Postdoctoral Scholar
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Research Technician
For all positions review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the positions are filled. To apply, please send a CV, including a list of three references, to Dr. Christopher Maher (christophermaher at wustl dot edu).
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Computational Biology/Cancer Genomics Postdoctoral Scholar
A postdoctoral scholar position in the area of Genomics and Bioinformatics is available in the Maher laboratory which is associated with The Genome Institute and the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Our lab focuses on developing computational methods for analyzing large-scale cancer genomics data collections from solid tumors to improve our understanding of cancer biology and identify novel therapies for treating patients. Active projects address topics such as structural variation, cancer evolution, discovery and characterization of novel long non-coding RNAs, and the development of new bioinformatic tools.
The successful applicant will focus on applying and developing computational and statistical tools to analyze whole genome and transcriptome sequencing data from cancer patients. Applicants should have a graduate degree in biology, bioinformatics, computational biology, or related field with a solid background in programming and statistics. Candidates should be comfortable working on UNIX/Linux operating system, program with Perl and/or Python, and familiar with statistical analysis packages (SAS, R, or Bioconductor). Also expected to be familiar with bioinformatics tools and genomics databases. Previous experience in cancer genomics would be an advantage but is not essential.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
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Evaluation and design of experimental plans for sequencing-based projects studying the genetic basis of cancer.
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Implementation and development of automated pipelines to analyze high throughput sequencing data.
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Integration of genetic and epigenetic changes in cancer including mutations, gene expression data, epigenetic
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modification, copy number and structural variation.
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Integrated pathway and gene network analysis related to cancer.
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Analyze and interpret results to communicate with others and produce scientific publications is required.
The successful candidate will be self-motivated, eager to acquire new knowledge and skills on a regular basis, and must demonstrate critical thinking skills. The ability to analyze and interpret results to communicate with others and produce scientific publications is required.
Environment:
As one of only three NIH-funded large-scale genome centers in the United States, The Genome Institute at Washington University is a leader in genomics research as it applies to the study of biology, human disease and the field of personalized medicine.
LncRNA Tumor Biology Postdoctoral Scholar
The Maher laboratory at Washington University is recruiting an outstanding and self-motivated post-doctoral research associate to study the mechanisms of non-coding RNAs in cancer progression and treatment resistance. The lab consists of a bioinformatics dry lab and a wet lab that function together to analyze data sets and functionalize potential mechanisms of non-coding RNAs in cancer. Open research projects include: 1) understanding how mutations alter non-coding RNA regulation, 2) defining the mechanisms of metastatic progression, and 3) dissecting the contribution of non-coding regulation in treatment resistance.
Preferred Qualifications:
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Background in molecular or cellular biology.
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Demonstrated ability to implement laboratory procedures, conduct research and records findings.
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Self-motivated and eager to acquire new knowledge and skills on a regular basis.
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Ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate results with others.
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Experience in working in a wet lab setting with a solid background in molecular and cellular biology, including techniques such as cell culture, RNA isolation, qPCR, cloning, and experience with mice. Using these techniques and others will help identify novel aspects of cancer biology that may ultimately lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Research Technician
A research technician position is available focusing on understanding the role of long noncoding transcripts in solid tumors and elucidating their mechanism of action in tumor progression.
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
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Assists with research studies, experiments and assays including collection of data, preparation of solutions and set-up and maintenance of equipment.
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Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
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Prepares tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.
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Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
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Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
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Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree (Master's degree is preferred) in biology or related field with a solid background in molecular biology. Minimum of 1 year of experience in a laboratory setting or equivalent combination of education and experience equaling 4 years required. Preference is given to candidates with experience using the following techniques: cloning, PCR, qPCR, RIP and ChIP assays.
The successful candidate will be self-motivated, eager to acquire new knowledge and skills on a regular basis, and must demonstrate critical thinking skills. The candidate is also expected to work independently and communicate with laboratory staff and investigators is required, maintain complete and organized records/reports, and have working knowledge of computer software and general lab equipment.