RESEARCH ASSOCIATE II

Working at Moffitt is both a career and a mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.
As the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, Moffitt employs some of the best and brightest minds from around the world. Join a dedicated team of nearly 10,000 who are shaping the future we envision.
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A National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center since 2001.

Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Arnold Etame, MD, PhD at Moffitt Cancer Center is seeking a motivated Research Associate II to support a federally funded, translational research program focused on therapeutic resistance in glioblastoma. This role offers hands-on research experience within Moffitt’s Neuro‑Oncology and Molecular Medicine Programs, contributing directly to discoveries aimed at improving outcomes for patients with malignant brain tumors.

The Etame laboratory at Moffitt Cancer Center focuses on elucidating and targeting mechanisms that drive therapeutic resistance in glioblastoma, the most common and lethal malignant brain tumor. The lab places a strong emphasis on the biology of glioblastoma stem cells and the genetic and epigenetic reprogramming mechanisms that enable tumor persistence and recurrence. Research efforts are highly translational, with the goal of advancing laboratory discoveries into early‑stage clinical trials for patients with malignant brain tumors. The program is federally funded through R01 grants and is embedded within Moffitt’s Neuro‑Oncology and Molecular Medicine Programs.

Position Highlights:

• Hands-on involvement in preclinical drug development studies, including single-agent and combination therapy testing in glioblastoma cell lines and patient-derived brain tumor stem cells.
• Contribute to preclinical translational research focused on novel therapeutic strategies for glioblastoma.
• Perform in vitro and in vivo drug evaluation studies, including single-agent and combination treatments, treatment administration, tumor monitoring, and tissue processing.
• Application of advanced laboratory techniques such as flow cytometry and cell cycle analysis, Western-blot, and qRT-PCR to investigate drug mechanisms of action.

The Ideal Candidate:

• Has hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and basic molecular biology techniques.
• Is comfortable performing multi-step experiments including drug treatments, sample preparation, and downstream molecular analyses.
• Demonstrates familiarity with flow cytometry or is willing to be trained in such assays.
• Shows strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple ongoing experiments simultaneously.
• Is highly motivated and interested in translational cancer therapeutics and improving outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain and expand glioblastoma cell lines and patient-derived tumor stem cell cultures.
• Perform in vitro drug testing, including dose-response studies and combination therapy experiments.
• Conduct apoptosis and cell cycle analyses using flow cytometry.
• Perform molecular and biochemical assays including Western blotting, and qRT-PCR to evaluate downstream signaling pathways.
• Assist with and perform in vivo experiments, including drug administration, monitoring, and tissue collection.
• Analyze experimental data, prepare figures, and contribute to lab meetings, and reports.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with safety regulations and institutional guidelines.

Credentials and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in a science-related field.
  • Master's degree preferred.
• Must have a minimum of one year of hands-on research experience.
• Prior experience with cancer biology and animal handling is strongly preferred.

Moffitt Cancer Center is an NCI-designated comprehensive Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. Tampa is an ideal choice for those seeking opportunities in a rapidly growing metropolitan city. With its vibrant economy and diverse culture, Tampa Bay offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Join the many who have already discovered what makes Tampa one of the fastest-growing metropolitan cities in the US. 

Moffitt Team Members are: 

• Eligible for an annual Team Member Incentive 
• Eligible for an annual Team Member Merit Increase
• Have an Inclusive Benefits package - Health, Financial, & Lifestyle coverage 

If you have the vision, passion, and dedication to contribute to our mission,

then we have a place for you.