Senior Research Assistant at The George Washington University
Washington, DC
About the Job
I. DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
Job Description Summary:
Founded in 1824, the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) is the 11th oldest medical school in the country and the first in the nation’s capital. Since its establishment, the school has been at the forefront of medical education, and has grown to include highly-ranked programs in the health and biomedical sciences. With dozens of top-tier residency programs, SMHS is a competitive and esteemed destination for medical school graduates across the country. Find out more here:
The Chung Lab in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and the Cancer Center of the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences is seeking a capable and enthusiastic Senior Research Assistant to conduct work on important questions about cancer metastasis by further developing and using our custom super-resolution microscopy and high-end analysis tools.
Our central research theme focuses on fundamental mechanisms of how cancers progress from initial tumors to metastatic diseases. Metastasis is the leading cause of death in cancer patients. However, the molecular and cellular details of how this transition occurs are unclear. The Chung Lab aims to elucidate the role of biophysical and biomechanical changes that occur in tumor cells as they take on metastatic characteristics. To this end, we employ novel, cutting-edge biophysical methods and conventional biochemical/cell biological tools. The former include single molecule tracking (SMT) in 2D and 3D on living cells, super-resolution microscopy such as SIM (structured illumination microscopy), and our custom MAxSIM, along with mathematical modeling/simulations we develop ourselves. In addition, we design and fabricate many of the devices we use. To learn more about us, please visit:
This position presents an exciting opportunity to engage in groundbreaking biophysical research focused on the mechanisms underlying tumor cell metastasis, utilizing our state-of-the-art super-resolution microscopy techniques. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, the key responsibilities of this role involve assisting in experimental execution, meeting data production deadlines, acquiring proficiency in novel experimental procedures, and maintaining efficient lab organization and management. The successful candidate will actively contribute to the preparation of technical reports and documentation, and collaborate on result dissemination for publication and presentation.
Furthermore, the position may entail performing additional duties as assigned. It is important to note that the absence of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning tasks that are logically aligned with the position.
Minimum Qualifications:
Qualified candidates will hold a BA/BS and 1 year of experience in a related discipline. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position.
Additional Required Licenses/Certifications/Posting Specific Minimum Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
- Highly skilled in Biochemistry and Cell Biology, demonstrating expertise in diverse techniques such as cell culture, gel electrophoresis (including western blotting and immunoprecipitation), cloning/mutagenesis, immunofluorescence, and confocal imaging.
- Collaborative team player with outstanding interpersonal skills, exceptional communication abilities, and strong organizational capabilities.
- Demonstrated exceptional work ethic, evidenced by a successful track record of collaborations, published research, and a genuine enthusiasm for acquiring knowledge in advanced research methodologies.
- Additional experience with human samples or animal studies would be highly desired.
Hiring Range
$20.97 - $28.62GW Staff Approach to Pay
Healthcare Benefits
GW offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, time off & leave, retirement savings, tuition, well-being and various voluntary benefits. For program details and eligibility, please visit
II. POSITION INFORMATION
Campus Location:
Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.College/School/Department:
School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS)Family
Research and LabsSub-Family
Laboratory ResearchStream
Service and SupportLevel
Level 3Full-Time/Part-Time:
Hours Per Week:
40Work Schedule:
Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pmWill this job require the employee to work on site?
YesEmployee Onsite Status
On-campus (in person)Telework:
NoRequired Background Check
Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry SearchSpecial Instructions to Applicants:
Employer will not sponsor for employment Visa status
Internal Applicants Only?
NoPosting Number:
R002076Job Open Date:
06/27/2024Job Close Date:
If temporary, grant funded or limited term appointment, position funded until:
Background Screening
Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire.EEO Statement:
The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.