Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Miriam Kim Lab studies methods to mobilize immune cells against hematologic malignancies to make an impact on the treatment of disease. We work at the intersection of hematopoiesis, immunology, cancer biology, stem cell biology, and gene engineering.

We are seeking a motivated individual to assist with studies investigating the optimal host environment to support chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy. CAR T cells are genetically engineered immune cells that are clinically used in the treatment of hematologic malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma. While CAR T cell therapy has demonstrated impressive success, many patients do not benefit from treatment, and so we are actively looking for ways to improve outcomes. One way to enhance the activity of CAR T cells is by modulating the host immune environment, using chemotherapy, radiation and/or various other reagents. The individual will conduct preclinical studies using mouse models to assess the effect of immunomodulatory agents on CAR T cell expansion, toxicity and anti-tumor activity and their mechanism of action.

The ideal candidate will possess intrinsic motivation to conduct innovative and impactful research. The individual will be trained to perform experiments independently and analyze data to produce graphs and figures for publication. Prior research experience is welcome but not required for this position. A growth mindset and ability to learn new concepts and skills is essential. Candidates with the ability to read scientific papers and synthesize information will be prioritized. The candidate will be given opportunities to attend scientific conferences and present data if they so desire.

Assists with the technical aspects of studies and experiments, including documentation and preparation of materials.

Job Description

More details of our research can be found here: https://miriamkimlab.com. 

• Assists with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
• Cell culture using sterile techniques, including media preparation, freezing and thawing cells.
• Isolation of primary immune cells from human and mouse samples, including monocytes, T cells, B cells, NK cells, and hematopoietic stem cells.
• Flow cytometry staining and acquisition of samples and data analysis.
• Genetic manipulation of cells using lentivirus, retrovirus, and/or CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing.
• Handles mice including measuring weights, peripheral blood collection, intraperitoneal and intravenous injections.
• Performs data entry and maintains data files on research.
• Prepares tissue cultures, reagents, probe tests, etc.
• Complies with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Applicant Special Instructions:

Interested applicants should submit the following when applying: 1) one-page cover letter briefly describing their research interests and career goals, 2) curriculum vitae, 3) academic transcript, and 4) contact information of 2-3 references.

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 to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications:

No specific certification is required for this position.

Work Experience:

No specific work experience is required for this position.

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

The ideal candidate will have up to one year of experience in a laboratory setting.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Certifications:

No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Skills:

Communication, Detailed Reports, Laboratory Instrumentation, Laboratory Research, Software Program, Working Independently

Grade

R06-H

Salary Range

$16.92 - $26.44 / Hourly

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected] or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

Pre-Employment Screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

Wellness

• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family

• We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.

• WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/

EEO/AA Statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.