These models will shed insight, at the molecular level, on a drug’s mechanism of action, as well as how cancer cells resist therapy. Molecular markers predicting sensitivity or resistance to therapy will be identified with the ultimate goal of discovering biomarkers that predict which patients will benefit from a specific treatment.

The primary purpose of the Institute Research Scientist is working together with a team of scientists towards discovery of novel anti-cancer compounds for the treatment of targeted patient populations. The candidate will be a highly creative cancer biologist with a strong desire to succeed at the highest level.

KEY FUNCTIONS

1. Apply and develop cutting edge basic science tools and methodologies to develop complex strategies and enable advancement of Institute projects through leadership and experimental activities.

2. Independently design, execute and interpret in vitro, ex-vivo and in vivo experiments to validate targets, optimize compound selection and explore therapeutic potential of drug targets. Analyze data generated by various studies and leverage results for the design of future studies.

3. Work with research and bioinformatics teams to utilize internal biological and oncogenomic data sets to generate and test hypothesis for drug targets

4. Work with chemistry and pharmacology teams as part of drug discovery efforts to validate targets and optimize novel small molecule therapeutics

5. Lead drug discovery biology efforts to selection of lead candidate molecules and transition into clinical development.

6. Design and develop cell and molecular assays to define mechanism of action for compounds, identify pharmacodynamic assays to be used in pre-clinical and clinical setting and test patient selection strategies

7. Adapt to new technologies and find solutions to related program studies.

8. Develop extensive knowledge and experience in key areas of tumor biology including, but not limited to oncogenic signaling, tumor microenvironment, metabolism, epigenetic deregulation or apoptosis.

9. Interpret, present and report research findings at internal meeting and external scientific conferences

Job Description –

Requirements

EDUCATION

Required: Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, enzymology, pharmacology, chemistry or related field. Preferred PhD in Biological Science or Medical degree.

EXPERIENCE

Required: Ten years experience of relevant research experience in lab. With preferred degree two years of relevant experience in oncology research in biotech or pharmaceutical environment.

Ideal Candidate will possess the following:
1. Experience with genetic (ie RNAi and cDNAs) and pharmacological (i.e. small molecule inhibitors or antibodies) approaches to study target biology utilizing biochemistry , cellular and molecular biology methods and assays to drive program biology;

2. Experience utilizing genetically engineered mouse models and orthotopic or subcutaneous primary or established tumor cell line xenograft models;

3. Experience working with chemists, in vitro and in vivo pharmacologists to develop and utilize assays in support of the development of small molecules for target validation and as part of compound lead optimization for the development of novel therapeutics;
4. Extensive knowledge and experience in key areas of tumor biology including, but not limited to, oncogenic signaling, tumor microenvironment, metabolism, epigenetic deregulation or anti-apoptosis as evidenced by publication in peer-reviewed journals;
5. Strong data analysis skills, ability to interpret results and contribute to the design of follow-up experiments, troubleshoot issues with assay performance, and effectively present results and conclusions to co-workers, collaborators and senior leadership;
6. Evidence of independent thinking and leadership skills;
7. Ability to work well under pressure and drive projects that impact critical timelines;
8. Flexibility to accommodate to rapidly changing priorities and deadlines;
9. Collaborative attitude and ability to work in a team-based environment is crucial;
10. Excellent oral and written communication skills;
11. Experience mentoring junior scientists is a plus.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.