Post Doctoral Associate

Position & Department Overview 

The overall objective of the lab is to understand the mechanisms modulating resistance to therapy and use the knowledge gained from these studies to develop novel therapies for glioblastoma. To this end, we utilize genome-wide screening to identify molecular modifiers of therapy sensitivity, especially to temozolomide (TMZ). We have already identified over six hundred potential druggable modulators of TMZ resistance. The post-doctoral fellow will perform secondary validation to identify the best candidates and use biochemical and pharmacological strategies to evaluate the mechanisms by which these candidates sensitize TMZ in glioblastoma cells in vitro and in vivo. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Focus of Job Responsibilities 

Experimental Design and Therapeutic Evaluation – 60%

• Conduct in vitro and in vivo studies to assess the efficacy of novel therapeutic targets, both alone and in combination with temozolomide and/or radiation.
• Investigate underlying mechanisms of action using a range of biochemical, pharmacological, and 

Target Validation and Molecular Engineering – 20%

• Use shRNA/CRISPR gene-targeting approaches to validate novel targets identified through secondary, custom-designed siRNA library screening.

Laboratory Management and Scholarly Contribution – 15%

• Mentor research technologists, students, and/or interns.
• Prepare and contribute to manuscripts for publication.
• Participate in local and national scientific meetings.

Other Duties – 5%

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D., DDS, DVM, MD or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in molecular and/or cancer biology.
• Experience in next-generation sequencing, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, and in conducting flank and intracranial efficacy studies in animals (mice).

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Must be comfortable working in environments that may include close contact
  with animals, animal byproducts, and related materials.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, outdoor environments, and potential odors
  or airborne particles related to animal care.

Work Profile

Profile 1, Office Lab-Based - is expected to work primarily on-site in the office/lab. Only occasionally and inconsistently working remotely. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, MN. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.