Research Assistant - Ager Lab (1-Year Limited Tenure)

Performs various support functions in research laboratory using proper procedures to avoid the risk of laboratory-acquired infection or sample-to-sample contamination. Maintains and cleans equipment and the facility; maintains and restocks supplies; and maintains computer database. Works under direct supervision. Attention to detail is essential while dealing with multiple tasks. Flexibility is important in adjusting to frequent changes in work volume.

We are looking for a highly motivated, congenial, detail-oriented, and quick-learning research assistant to join the laboratory of Dr. Casey Ager at the Mayo Clinic Phoenix campus in the Department of Immunology and Department of Urology.

Additional Information:

A successful applicant will receive direct mentoring, independent lab leadership responsibilities, and exposure to state-of-the-art research experience spanning basic immunology techniques, pre-clinical modeling of cancer immunotherapy efficacy in mouse models, and exposure to clinical trials through processing patient-derived specimens for immune profiling. This is an opportunity to join a multi-disciplinary team at Mayo Clinic in Arizona consisting of basic and translational immunologists, molecular biologists, medical oncologists, surgeons, bioinformaticians, and trainees of all levels. Success in this position can lead to a long-term position in the lab or can serve as a launchpad to future PhD, MD, or MD/PhD training.

We are looking for a highly motivated, congenial, detail-oriented, and quick-learning research assistant to join the laboratory of Dr. Casey Ager at the Mayo Clinic Phoenix campus in the Department of Immunology and Department of Urology.

A successful applicant will receive direct mentoring, independent lab leadership responsibilities, and exposure to state-of-the-art research experience spanning basic immunology techniques, pre-clinical modeling of cancer immunotherapy efficacy in mouse models, and exposure to clinical trials through processing patient-derived specimens for immune profiling. This is an opportunity to join a multi-disciplinary team at Mayo Clinic in Arizona consisting of basic and translational immunologists, molecular biologists, medical oncologists, surgeons, bioinformaticians, and trainees of all levels. Success in this position can lead to a long-term position in the lab or can serve as a launchpad to future PhD, MD, or MD/PhD training.

Primary roles include:

• Laboratory maintenance, organization, stocking/inventorying, and ordering.
• Assisting a team of graduate and postdoctoral fellows in experimentation involving cell culture, mouse handling and tumor models, patient specimen processing (e.g., blood, tumor tissue).
• Learning and assisting state-of-the-art spectral flow methodologies routinely exceeding 40-50+ parameter antibody panels run on either mouse or human-derived tumor and blood samples. 
• Opportunity to independently drive a research project(s) contingent upon efficiency, experience, and motivation. Projects routinely involve mouse tumor modeling and evaluation of novel therapeutics.

A successful applicant will demonstrate tangible evidence of diligence, attention to detail, efficiency, and collegiality to promote a cohesive and healthy team work environment. Strong communication skills are critical, as is an enthusiasm to collaborate in an assisting role on several projects in the lab. 

Other requirements:

• A diploma with evidence of success in science coursework. A bachelor's degree with a biology/biochemistry (or related) major will be viewed favorably
• Fluency in Excel and related computer-based inventorying systems
• Hands-on laboratory experience in tissue culture, molecular biology, immunology methods, or flow cytometry is not strictly required but will be viewed favorably
• Willingness to handle laboratory mice and process tissue and blood specimens
• Strong written, visual, and oral communication skills alongside strong social skills
• Self-motivation, willingness to assist, and possession of an affable, respectful, and positive disposition

This vacancy is not eligible for sponsorship/ we will not sponsor or transfer visas for this position. Also, Mayo Clinic DOES NOT participate in the F-1 STEM OPT extension program.

Requires a high school diploma with coursework in mathematics and relevant sciences. Must have previous work experience that demonstrates organizational skills, attention to detail