Postdoctoral Research Associate - Surgical Oncology

Location: Saint Louis, MO 63110

About the Role

The Gillanders lab in the Department of Surgery is a leader in translational studies in Immuno-Oncology with an emphasis on personalized cancer vaccines. The laboratory has several ongoing clinical trials involving various platforms for the delivery and clinical benefit of personalized cancer vaccines.

The ideal candidate will have experience in culturing human cells derived from patients undergoing clinical trials and characterizing the immune response elicited by vaccine administration. Experience with ELISpot immunoassays, flow cytometry, molecular biology techniques, and basic experiments using good laboratory practices is required. The role also demands meticulous record-keeping, database management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with other lab personnel.

Responsibilities

• Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor, including but not limited to:
  • Assisting with grant preparation and reporting.
  • Preparing and submitting research papers.
  • Designing research experiments.
  • Evaluating research findings and assisting in reporting results.
• Conscientiously discharging research responsibilities.
• Maintaining conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintaining compliance with good laboratory practice, including adequate research records.
• Engaging in open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of materials, reagents, or records, and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques.
• Exhibiting collegial conduct toward co-trainees, staff members, and members of the research group.
• Adhering to all applicable University policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Recognizing that all data, research records, materials, and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and provide standard care to research animals.

Requirements

• Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Benefits

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. For more details, visit the benefits summary page.

Additional Information

Postdoctoral appointments at WashU have a 5-year term limit that includes previous experience.