Job Description

A Full-time postdoctoral research position is immediately available for a highly motivated individual wanting to apply for training in the biological sciences and immunology to study immunotherapeutic approaches to hematologic malignancies. The position in the Gaensler Lab in the Helen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center/ Division of Hematology/Oncology at UCSF is in a vibrant and exciting environment where cross-cutting programs, including the Bakar ImmunoX Initiative, the Cancer Immunotherapy Program, and groups belonging to the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy are situated. The candidate must have excellent recent training and research experience in molecular/cellular biology and immunology or a related discipline.

We are pursuing translational and pre-clinical studies using a novel leukemia vaccine (Shi et al., 2018). Currently, the outcomes for older patients with acute myelogenous leukemia are dismal. Thus, our long-term objective is to enhance patients' anti-leukemic immune responses, thereby increasing relapse-free survival. Proof of concept studies have been performed in relevant cell lines and in vivo in tumor model systems (Shi et al., 2018). We are assessing immunological responses to engineered human leukemia vaccines in preparation for an IND application. We also pursue collaborative mechanistic studies with UCSF, UCLA, and other labs. Individuals interested in basic and translational cancer research and with a strong background in cellular biology, immunology, bioinformatics, and murine models of human disease are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must be highly independent, motivated, and value working in teams, with demonstrated project management and leadership success. Successful candidates must have a BA/BS and a PhD in a related discipline and have excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Our laboratory is pursuing translational and pre-clinical studies using a novel leukemia vaccine (Shi et al., 2018). Currently, the outcomes for older patients with acute myelogenous leukemia are dismal. Thus, the lab's long-term objective is to enhance patients' anti-leukemic immunological responses and increase relapse-free survival. We are assessing immunological responses to engineered human leukemia vaccines in preparation for an IND application. We are also pursuing collaborative mechanistic studies on the tumor microenvironment. These studies are being pursued in collaboration with other investigators at UCSF and UCLA. Individuals interested in basic and translational cancer research and with a background in cellular biology, immunology, bioinformatics, and murine models of human disease are encouraged to apply.

The Gaensler Lab's mission is to train the next generation of scientists under the mentorship of the lab’s Principal Investigator, Dr. Karin Gaensler, as well as additional members of the lab and collaborating investigators. Beyond training in technical skills, candidates will be provided with opportunities to present their research through presentations at local and national meetings, as well as co-authored publications. Training will be provided to enable the candidate to participate in a variety of laboratory projects.

Job responsibilities include but are not limited to:
● Applying a range of molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning and synthetic construct design
● Performing flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry
● Bioinformatics data analysis, including bulk RNA-Seq, DNA Seq, flow cytometric analysis, and high-dimensional single-cell analysis, including multimodal single-cell sequencing assays (Mux-CITEseq)
● Finding, Sharing, and Managing Data
● Programming, including Python, R, and SQL
● Performing statistics using machine learning
● Performing gene transfer studies using lentiviral infection of human cell cultures
● Culturing primary immune cells and establishing cancer cell lines
● Conducting studies of immune cell therapies against a variety of cancer cell lines in mice
● High-dimensional analysis of mouse tumor specimens using spectral flow, CyTOF, or scRNAseq
● Assisting with lab maintenance duties, including ordering chemicals, reagents, and supplies
● Reading literature applicable to research areas as required
● Participating in laboratory meetings and planning

Required Qualifications
● Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills (verbal and written)
● Ability to learn new methods and skills for changing research priorities
● Ability to work independently and as a member of a research team
● Ability to prioritize tasks, coordinate work tasks with others, and meet multiple deadlines
● Follow Guidelines of Reproducibility for Biomedical Researchers
● Prior experience working with biological samples in a laboratory setting

Preferred Qualifications
● Experience in fundamental aspects of biochemistry and cell biology, including observing sterile techniques for working with and passaging cell lines, counting cells, and preparing lysates
● Willingness to work with laboratory mice
● Experience with mammalian tissue culture and flow cytometry
● Computer software skills (MS Office, PRISM, Benchling, Flowjo, Illustrator)
● Able to learn complex tasks with general instruction. Able to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques

A two-year commitment is expected. Depending on performance and workload, opportunities for independent research, mentorship of other trainees, and scientific writing will be available.

Applicants must meet requirements by the time of hire.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Please apply by e-mail to Karin Gaensler ([email protected]) and [email protected]

Document requirements
● Curriculum Vitae - The CV must list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g., board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
● Cover Letter
● Statement of Research (Optional)
● Statement of Teaching (Optional)
● Statement of Contributions to Diversity - Please see the following page for more details: https://diversity.ucsf.edu/contributions-to-diversity-statement
(Optional)
● Misc / Additional (Optional)

Reference requirements
● 3-5 required (contact information only)

CAMPUS INFORMATION
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

UC San Francisco seeks candidates whose experience, teaching, research, or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence. The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

JOB LOCATION
San Francisco, CA