Job Description

This role offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of tumor plasticity-a rapidly emerging area redefining how we understand therapy resistance and cancer evolution. You will contribute to an integrated research program combining advanced molecular biology, single-cell and spatial profiling, and in vivo mouse models to uncover how dynamic cell states drive tumor behavior.

Beyond the science itself, this is a highly hands-on role with meaningful ownership of experiments and data generation, working closely with a physician-scientist building a new translational research program. You will gain exposure to both wet lab and computational approaches, develop a versatile technical skillset, and play a direct role in shaping early discoveries with clear clinical relevance.

This environment is best suited for individuals who are intellectually curious, detail-oriented, and motivated by continuous learning, with a strong commitment to rigor, integrity, and collaborative science. 

Working under direct supervision, the Research Associate II performs routine and increasingly complex laboratory tasks and procedures and develops technical expertise in one or more areas relevant to research projects. The Research Associate II will participate in research activities involving all aspects of the research process, to include, but not limited to; investigation, technical, testing/validation of results, and report findings. The Associate will perform a variety of routine experimental protocols and procedures to support the objectives of laboratory research projects. The Associate will observe and comply with safety standards and procedures, assist in preparation of data for publication and/or presentation at scholarly meetings, and assist in general laboratory maintenance. This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

What will you be doing:

• Breeding and maintenance of experimental mouse models
• Induction of in vivo models of cancer
• Processing of tumor tissue, including dissociation, FACS, and staining
• Performs a variety of increasingly complex experimental protocols and procedures and assist in the design of new complex or unusual protocols and techniques.
• Keeps accurate and detailed records of experiments and results, and assist in identifying and troubleshooting of unexpected results.
• Orders laboratory supplies and supports laboratory operations.
• Maintains lab equipment and related records and may coordinate use of lab equipment.
• Assists in the operation of specialized equipment, as required by the area of research.
• Assists in preparation of data for publication and/or presentation at scholarly meetings.
• Observes and complies with safety standards and procedures.
• Orients research laboratory assistants or lower level research associates and undergraduate student researchers on day-to-day lab operations and routine procedures.

Qualifications

This role is designed to be 100% onsite, giving you the opportunity to collaborate closely with your team and immerse yourself in the energy of our workplace. Please note that hybrid or remote work options are NOT available for this position at this time.

Requirements:

• Bachelors in Science Related Field
• 1 year of Research laboratory experience.

Key Skills and Experience We Are Looking For:

1. In Vivo Mouse Experimentation:

• Hands-on experience working independently with mice.
• Tasks include managing breeding colonies, genotyping, monitoring and measuring tumors, and processing tissues (such as tumor dissociation).
• Comfort with following protocols with minimal supervision and troubleshooting common issues.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience required; 2 or more years is strongly preferred.

2. Experimental Molecular or Cellular Biology:

• Proficiency in at least one of the following areas, with a willingness to quickly learn additional skills:
  • Molecular biology techniques such as plasmid design and cloning, PCR, and DNA/RNA workflows.
  • Mammalian cell culture (mouse or human), including maintaining cells, passaging, and performing basic functional assays.
• Ideal candidates pay close attention to experimental rigor, reproducibility, and documentation and are quick learners of related techniques.

About Cedars Sinai

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