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We are seeking a Research Specialist to support the lab of Dr. Christopher Garcia at Stanford University. The Garcia lab is interested in the biochemistry and cell biology of cell surface receptors and their ligands. Using a range of methodologies, the Garcia lab investigates how ligand recognition and signaling coordinate with the physiology of the cell. In addition to understanding basic aspects of receptor signaling (second messengers, gene expression) and structural biology, the team is also interested in the creation/engineering of novel receptor ligands using protein engineering. A major aim of their work is to synthetically leverage natural biological signaling mechanisms as a path to potential therapeutics. More information about this lab can be found on his website https://med.stanford.edu/garcialab.html

The candidate will have expertise in the general are of biochemistry and cell biology, with preferred experience in analyzing cell signaling and gene expression. Familiarity with recombinant protein expression from mammalian cells (i.e. 293), and basic cell culture of immune cells and assays.  Prefer experience in immunology, both in vitro and in vivo, with experience in analyzing TCR and cytokine signaling pathways, cell biology and gene expression, as well as possibly carrying out in vivo tumor models in mice. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing projects in the lab aimed at developing new immunotherapeutic molecules and strategies. The position requires a highly self-motivated, accomplished individual with an outstanding track-record of innovation and success in both graduate school and postdoctoral research with a strong publication record. The position will require working in team environments supporting lab projects in a collaborative fashion, as well as individual projects. It is expected that the individual will contribute to publications, as well as assisting in basic aspects of grant preparation and progress reports.

What you’ll do

• Perform various specialized scientific investigative procedures in support of assigned research projects.

• Conduct literature reviews to be used in determining most suitable research methods.

• Identify methodological problems in research protocol and assist in implementing modifications to optimize experimental results.

• Coordinate specialized and novel research functions.

• Train others in complex technical protocols.

• Prepare and present written or oral progress reports concerning studies, including assembly, organizational and interpretation of data.

• Use software applications to assemble, manipulate, format and/or perform statistical analyses of standard data.

• May configure, operate, and/or maintain specialized equipment.

• May develop, or lead the development of, training tools.

• May plan for and provide working supervision to a group of laboratory employees of lower grade engaged in the performance of technical and professional work and a variety of complex to routine to complex tasks.

• Assisting the PI with research related administrative tasks such as grant writing, grant progress reports, publications, monitoring materials transfer and collaboration agreements, interfacing with biotech companies to lead collaborations.

• Working with students, trainees at all levels to indoctrinate them into the lab.

Skills You Bring:

• A Ph.D. or M.D. degree with at least 3 years of relevant postdoctoral research experience in academia and/or industry is required.

• A strong background in immunology, in vitro and in vivo analysis of TCR and cytokine signaling, in vivo mouse tumor models, and preferably some experience with protein biochemistry, phospho-flow.

• The successful candidate must be technically rigorous, possess exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail and have a track-record of excellence, innovation and productivity in research.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication and writing skills are imperative.

• The successful candidate must be able to work both independently and collaboratively and will have additional roles in the training of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students and staff members.

• Ability to prepare research reports for presentation to a large audience.

• Ability to draft research manuscripts. 

• In-depth knowledge of multiple scientific areas and of the underlying principles and concepts. 

• Able to critically review information. Readily understands new concepts.

• Ability to develop innovative processes to achieve goals. Reviews work activities to determine where new information could improve processes or move projects forward.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more. 

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer