Research Fellow

The Research Assistant will support ongoing projects (protective host-parasite immune effector interactions in vitro for Onchocerca volvulus) as well as new projects focused on discovery of novel drug targets in filarial worms that are validated to be essential for survival, development and/or embryogenesis. In addition, they will support research focused on validating HPX-612 as an oral therapeutic option to combat visceral leishmaniasis, first in vitro then in vivo, as well as define optimal posology.

Molecular biology techniques (purification of DNA, RNA, qPCR, qRT-PCR)
• Validate essentiality of gene targets using RNAi
• Tissue culture techniques, culture worms, and characterizing phenotypes after drug treatment
• Study the function of the proteins
• Microscopy (regular, IFA and confocal)
• Processed fixed specimens for ultrastructural changes using electron microscopy
• Culture of human and mouse cells: Set tissue cultures using defined cells to detect and analyze responses against living worms
• Culture parasites with host cells.
• Test immunogenicity and efficacy of recombinant vaccines against infection with infective stage larvae as well as use monospecific antibodies for ADCC assays in vitro.
• Handle animals; immunized and/or treated with drugs and analyze outcomes.
• Independent, productive, and creative
• Follow protocols
• Develop new protocols, execute them, and solve problems if needed
• Discuss protocols, experiments, outcomes, and plan future experiments
• Good communicating skills, record maintenance and paying attention to details
• Contribute to grant and manuscript writing
• Experience in summarizing outcomes using various computer programs, including more specific graphing programs such GraphPad, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator.
• Maintain laboratory instruments as needed.
• Perform the duties as required
• Works on special projects, individually and in a team, as required
• Makes recommendations to improve organizational processes.
• Performs routine administrative functions as required.
• Any related duties as assigned.

Education:

• Ph.D. in biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, cell Biology, immunology and/or closely related fields.

Experience:

• At least 2-3 years of broad knowledge and experience in biology in a research laboratory setting with a working knowledge of biochemical, structural, molecular and cellular biology including tissue culture techniques, general and confocal microscopy, basic immunology, and general laboratory techniques. Interest in the translational aspects of these disciplines.

• Experience handling animals (gerbils, mice) is highly desirable.

Knowledge:

• Must be familiar with basic molecular and cellular lab techniques
• Knowledge of good laboratory technique is essential
• Knowledge of basic immunological techniques such as ELISA, tissue culture and analyses of various analytes
• Able to learn new techniques
• Able to interact with members of other departments
• Knowledge of a variety of software applications (Microsoft Office Suite and others related to imaging and graphing).

Skills & Abilities:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple tasks and demands.
• High level of interpersonal skills to handle a variety of complex issues and situations.
• Position requires demonstrated poise, tact, and diplomacy in dealing with a variety of staff up to and including executive leadership.
• Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems within established policies and procedures.
• Able to learn various molecular biology techniques including purification of DNA, RNA, generating cDNA, and PCR/qRT-PCR analysis.
• Strong attention to detail in all work processes.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to identify complex problems in a timely manner, decipher information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Performs statistical analysis; interprets and evaluates results, and compiles data for peer and PI review.

Any combination of education, training and experience that has supplied the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to perform the essential functions of the job.

For applicants who will perform this position in New York City or Westchester County, the proposed annual salary is $82,232.00p/yr. to $92,960.00p/yr. For applicants who will perform this position outside of New York City or Westchester County, salary will reflect local market rates and be commensurate with the applicant's skills, job-related knowledge, and experience.

Founded in 1964, New York Blood Center (NYBC) has served the tri-state area for more than 60 years, delivering 500,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 150+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. NYBC is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCe's Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. NYBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit nybc.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.