Summary

The Staff Scientist will provide responsible research assistance for studies on hepatitis B virus in the Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology. The laboratory is using artificial intelligence and computational algorithms to identify and repurpose FDA-approved drugs as novel HBV therapeutics to combat chronic HBV infection and progression to cancer. This role will encompass both sterile maintenance and culturing of cells, growing of virus strains, performing a variety of assays such as transfections of cells, enzyme immunoassays, RT-qPCR, and Western blots to detect functional viral and host proteins critical for successful virus replication. A responsible, skilled and dedicated individual is required. The Staff Scientist position will offer a unique and rewarding translational research experience in a dynamic and highly productive laboratory. Suitable for someone who can handle multiple projects and can follow instructions to complete assignments under minimal supervision.

https://www.bcm.edu/research/faculty-labs/mary-k-estes-lab

Job Duties

• Plans, directs and conducts research experiments involving infection of human stem cell derived liver organoids with clinical isolates of different genotypes of HBV.
• Evaluates the effectiveness of compounds to reduce HBV replication or HBV cccDNA.
• Maintains human liver organoids and other mammalian cells.
• Evaluates and analyzes data.
• May conduct literature searches and summarize information in an appropriate format for a particular study.
• Documents results of experiments and reports to principal investigator.
• May supervise, schedule and coordinate the activities of less experienced research staff.
• Contributes to lab maintenance: ordering supplies, general clean up, freezer cataloging, and maintaining lab equipment.
• Performs other job related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Doctoral Degree. Experience may not be substituted in lieu of degree.
• Three years of post doctoral research experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Significant research experience in molecular biology, virology is a plus.