Senior Research Scientist - Military veterans preferred

Senior Research Scientist

Job Description:

• The Senior Research Scientist will contribute to head and neck cancer research, focusing on HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancer. The position involves a range of responsibilities across experimental work, project management, and research communication.

• Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collect, process, and store bodily fluids and tumor samples following standard protocols.
• Ensure flexible scheduling for sample collection from ORs and clinical laboratories.
• Annotate clinical information for consented patients and collected samples.
• Locate and allocate required samples for study purposes to other investigators.
• Conduct tissue cultures and in vitro studies (e.g., cell culture, immunostaining, FACS analysis).
• Perform molecular experiments (DNA/RNA/protein isolation, quantification, qPCR/Western blot).
• Establish and manage rabbit or mouse models of oropharyngeal cancer using standard protocols.
• Apply microsurgical techniques for tissue collection, tumor modeling, resections, and wound closure.
• Demonstrate expertise in tissue sectioning, staining, and microCT imaging to identify tumors/lymph nodes.

• Required Qualifications:

Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent doctoral/terminal degree.

• Independently manage and advance research projects with scientific proposals under PI supervision.
• Prepare manuscripts and research proposals for grants.
• Present experimental proposals and research findings at lab meetings and international conferences.
• Draft abstracts and presentations for international conferences.
• Assist in preparing manuscripts based on performed research work.

Job Summary

Serves as subject matter expert and conducts independent scientific research projects from inception to presentation. Prepares and crafts various complex documentations of research results into manuscripts, proposals, grant applications, and presentations. Trains undergraduates, junior lab members, and research technicians. Manages laboratory policies and coordinates high-level work and project development in collaboration with other specialists.

Essential Functions

Collect, process, and store bodily fluids and tumor samples following established protocols and allocate samples to investigators as needed. Ensure flexible scheduling for sample collection from ORs and clinical labs. Conduct tissue cultures and in vitro studies, including cell culture, immunostaining, and FACS analysis. Perform molecular experiments such as DNA/RNA/protein isolation, quantification, and qPCR/Western blot analysis. Establish and manage animal models of oropharyngeal cancer following standard procedures. Apply microsurgical techniques for tissue collection, tumor modeling, resections, and wound closure. Demonstrate expertise in tissue sectioning, staining, and microCT imaging to identify tumors/lymph nodes. Independently manage research projects and proposals under PI supervision. Draft abstracts and presentations for international conferences. Prepare manuscripts and research proposals for grants. Present experimental proposals and research at weekly lab meetings and international conferences.

Physical Effort

Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Senior Research Scientist

Job Family: Research

Job Sub Family: Research Science

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Professional Doctorate Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 7

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: No

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: Yes

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: The following PA Act 153 clearances and background checks are required prior to commencement of employment and as a condition of continued employment: PA State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance.

Required Documents: Resume

Optional Documents: Not Applicable




Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

PI270352217