Human Biology Job Openings

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

A laboratory in the Human Biology Division at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center is seeking a Post-Doctoral Fellow to work with an interactive collaborative team of scientists investigating the mechanisms of HIV-1 immune responses and virus/host dynamics. The applicant should be well organized, pay close attention to detail, be reliable and motivated to participate in multiple levels of lab activity.

This postdoctoral position will focus on innate immunity to viral infections and to viral detection, focused on HIV and Zika viruses. The candidate should have expertise in biochemistry and molecular biology and strong communication skills. The responsibilities include those expected at a PhD level, including leading the technical aspects of the study, contributing intellectually to the overall study design, interpreting data, presenting the findings at meetings and writing manuscripts.

Responsibilities

The fellow will perform standard routine and investigative laboratory work in support of scientific research specific to viral detection and viral immunity. Major responsibilities include:

• Preform experiments at the bench level to support investigative work, potentially including, but not limited to molecular biology, viral extractions and assays, DNA sequencing, PCR amplification, RT-PCR amplification, TC culture, BLS2/3 work, including making virus stocks and performing viral infection.
• CRISPR/Cas9 screening and editing
• Phage display methods and deep sequencing of phage
• Recover, compile and verify accuracy of research data
• Operate analytical instruments.
• Perform and modify documented protocols and assays
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays
• Interpret and report on experimental results.
• Present data at local and national meetings
• Prepare manuscripts describing the data and their meaning to the field.

Qualifications

Educational or Special Training Qualifications

• BA/BS required in a scientific field – biochemistry desirable.
• Applicants should have a PhD (or equivalent degree) in Biomedical Sciences and basic techniques in biochemistry and molecular biology. Ability to think critically and design and interpret experiments is essential, as are strong communication skills.

Experience Requirements

• Experience with molecular biology and biochemical methods.
• A strong interest in research in the area of viral immunology, infectious diseases and global health.
• Evidence of productivity appropriate to a postdoctoral fellow as measured by publications and presentations, abstracts and posters at conferences.
• Well-organized with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and perform experiments without day-to-day supervision will be required after training.
• Ability to work as part of a team and to participate in multiple projects in collaboration with different lab members.

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

The Avgousti lab at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center has an opening for a postdoctoral fellow.

A hallmark of many diseases and cancers is the aberrant regulation of chromatin. Much like the cellular genome, viral genomes are compacted in virus particles with small basic molecules to maximize space and be poised for gene expression. Some DNA viruses use cellular histone proteins to compact their genomes whereas others use small basic molecules. The Avgousti lab in the Human Biology Division at Fred Hutch uses a multidisciplinary approach to uncover the mechanisms by which viruses hijack chromatin (Nature 2016, J. Virol 2017, Mol Cel Proteomics 2017). Our goal is to advance basic understanding of viral manipulation of chromatin and reveal new aspects of chromatin biology thereby providing new avenues for possible therapeutic advances.

Our current research efforts are divided among studies of (1) a small basic protein from adenovirus, protein VII, that serves to compact its genome while wreaking havoc on the host genome, (2) host histones found on herpesvirus genomes during infection and how they can be exploited to block infection, and (3) using viral tools to block inflammation and cancer progression.

Additional information about research in the Avgousti lab can be found at:

https://research.fhcrc.org/avgousti/en.html

Responsibilities

The successful candidate will work on collaborative projects in the Avgousti Lab primarily focused on, but not limited to, the understanding the dynamics of protein VII-DNA complexes, protein VII-nucleosome complexes, binding partners and the impact of mutations on viral infection. Candidates should have excellent communication skills, value teamwork and can thrive in a fast-paced environment. 

Qualifications

We are looking for exceptional candidates with a recent PhD, a record of productive research (at least one first-author publication), with knowledge and experience in biochemistry and molecular biology. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in structural biology for the study of viral proteins by crystallography or other biophysical techniques. Virology knowledge is beneficial but not required. Interested candidates should submit a CV, a summary of research experience and interests, and contact information for three references.

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

Responsibilities

A postdoctoral position is available in the MacPherson Lab at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. The project will focus on small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a neuroendocrine tumor type that exhibits initial sensitivity to chemotherapy but invariable emergence of chemoresistance. Our lab is interested in linking specific gene mutations in SCLC to therapeutic vulnerabilities and to chemoresistance. We have developed a panel of new genetically engineered murine models (e.g. see Jia et al, 2018 Cancer Discovery) and patient derived xenograft models that can be used in these efforts.  Many projects in the lab incorporate genome-wide functional screens in cells and in vivo.  These screens are used to identify functionally important genes for SCLC and genetic vulnerabilities that might lead to new avenues to therapeutically target SCLC.  One available project includes interrogating the importance of candidate SCLC driver genes and linking specific SCLC-mutated genes to novel therapeutic approaches. Hits identified through functional screens are followed by therapeutic studies that employ GEM and PDX model.  A second available project applies in vivo genome-wide screens to understand drivers of chemoresistance.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a PhD or MD and interests in cancer genetics, epigenetics, murine models, functional screening and/or therapeutics. The candidate should be able to drive an individual project but also be highly collaborative.  A strong foundation in molecular and cell biology is essential. The candidate should be independent, enthusiastic and scientifically rigorous.

Please include a cover letter detailing your research interest and suitability for this position and names of at least two references with your application. 

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to lead a project in cancer drug target discovery based in the laboratory of Dr. Christopher Kemp. The ideal candidate will have a formal background in cancer biology, expertise in cell culture, including tumor organoids, molecular biology, genetic analysis, and the use of animal models. 

Responsibilities

The applicant will apply state of the art functional genomic and high-throughput screening approaches to identify genes required for cancer cell survival and sensitizers to current cancer therapeutics. Through functional cellular assays, and animal models, the applicant will prioritize and validate these as candidate drug targets. The applicant will be expected to interact with an interdisciplinary local team (computational scientists, clinicians, cancer biologists) and with the national CTD2 network. We currently have identified several high-value targets that are in stages of validation in patient derived tumor organoids.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

• A PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, genetics, or related discipline.
• Demonstrated track record of productive, independent research.

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience with drug development would be a plus.  

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your research accomplishments, and suitability for this position with your application. At least two letters of recommendation will be requested as part of the screening process.

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to lead a project in cancer drug target discovery based in the laboratory of Dr. Christopher Kemp.  The applicant will apply state of the art functional genomic and high throughput screening approaches to identify genes required for cancer cell survival and sensitizers to current cancer therapeutics.  Through bioinformatic curation, functional cellular assays, and animal models, the applicant will prioritize and validate these as candidate drug targets.  We currently have identified a number of high value targets that are in stages of validation in patient derived tumor organoids.  The ideal candidate will have a formal background in cancer biology and genetics, with expertise in cell culture, including tumor organoids, molecular biology, genetic analysis, and the use of animal models. The applicant will be expected to interact with an interdisciplinary local team (computational scientists, clinicians, cancer biologists) and with the national CTD2 network.  

Responsibilities

The applicant will apply state of the art functional genomic and high throughput screening approaches to identify genes required for cancer cell survival and sensitizers to current cancer therapeutics.  Through bioinformatic curation, functional cellular assays, and animal models, the applicant will prioritize and validate these as candidate drug targets.

The applicant will be expected to interact with an interdisciplinary local team (computational scientists, clinicians, cancer biologists) and with the national CTD2 network.

Qualifications

• A PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, genetics, or related discipline.
• Experience in standard molecular biology techniques, including qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, shRNA and CRISPR vector design and construction.
• Experience with drug development would be a plus.
• Demonstrated track record of productive, independent research.

Please include a cover letter detailing your research accomplishments, go forward interests, and suitability for this position with your application.   At least two letters of recommendation will be requested as part of the screening process.

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

A postdoctoral position is immediately available in the Hsieh Lab at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. The core focus of the Hsieh Lab is to interrogate the mechanisms by which post-transcriptional gene regulation governs cancer cell behavior at a molecular, cellular, and organismal level.

Responsibilities

For this position, the applicant will utilize murine genetics, whole transcriptome ribosome profiling, RNA labeling/sequencing techniques, various cellular and molecular assays, and a repository of primary human cancer samples to understand how the shape of mRNA direct their translation and cancer phenotypes. Applicants should be interested in the application of basic science research towards clinically intractable problems faced by cancer patients and will be expected to be scientifically intrepid.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications:

We are looking for exceptional candidates with a recent PhD and/or MD, a record of productive research, and the ability to work independently as well as in collaborative research efforts.

Preferred qualifications:

A strong background in high throughput methods, RNA biology, and/or computational biology are highly desirable. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.

To apply for this position, please provide the following:

• Cover letter summarizing your research interest
• CV
• Three references

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

The Prostate Program in the Human Biology Division at Fred Hutch is seeking a Research Technician to perform standard and investigative laboratory work in support of scientific research by performing bench-level experiments, supervise daily lab operations, operating analytical instruments, recovering, compiling and verifying the accuracy of research data; performing calculations; preparing charts, graphs and summaries. This position works under the direction of the Principal Investigator and uses discretion and judgment in performance of duties.

Responsibilities

The position requires attention to detail and excellent communication skills. The candidate should be able to work independently and as part of a larger team. In addition, leadership skills including supervising daily lab operations and teaching students and fellows are necessary. This position provides a rich environment to learn about cell biology and the drug discovery process. Candidates will also have the opportunity to present their research during lab meetings and scientific conferences and to write, submit, and publish scientific papers.

• Perform experiments at the bench level to support investigative work
• Prepare and maintain laboratory reagents, stocks, cultures or cell lines
• Perform and modify documented protocols and assays
• Supervising daily lab operations
• Teach relevant techniques to students and fellows
• Maintain laboratory records and compile data on experiments and assays
• Interpret and report on experimental results
• Perform statistical analysis of test results and prepare written reports on work performed
• Operate and carry out basic maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Order and maintain appropriate levels of supplies
• Perform other duties as required
• Identify methodological problems in research protocol and implement modifications to optimize experimental results
• Prepare and present written or oral progress reports concerning studies including assembly, organization, and interpretation of data
• Assist in the design of experiments; may be responsible for the performance of individual research projects
• Conduct literature reviews to assist in determining most suitable methods to be used in research
• Full involvement in publication of findings including literature review, contributing ideas, summarize results in publication format.
• May perform statistical analyses, write computer programs, or manage research data base

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry or related field in life sciences
• Significant laboratory experience (at least 4 years post-graduation)
• Ability to supervise daily laboratory operations
• Extensive experience with standard molecular biological techniques (DNA and RNA extraction) and biochemical approaches (gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation) 
• Experience with in situ assays such as immunohistochemistry, FISH and RNA in situ assays
• Attention to detail, time management skills and a collaborative disposition

Preferred:

• Mouse handling experience
• Mammalian cell culture experience
• NGS library preparation experience
• Prior publication record

Please include a resume and a brief (1-2 paragraphs) cover letter summarizing your interests and experience.

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

The Tapscott Lab seeks a Staff Scientist to manage the lab with an interactive group of scientists investigating lineage specification and cell differentiation. The lab focuses on gene transcription in a chromatin context in normal development and disease. Areas of research include gene expression in cell culture models of cell specification and differentiation that includes myogenesis, neurogenesis, and pluripotent stem cells to identify the molecular bases of totipotency, pluripotency, specification, and differentiation. Models derived from these developmental systems are applied to understand human diseases, including cancers and degenerative diseases.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will work independently under the guidance of and in conjunction with the Principal Investigator in accomplishing the goals of the laboratory and use discretion and judgment in carrying out experiments. Job duties will include:

• Supervise the daily operations of the research laboratory
• Conduct research independently as well as contribute to research being done by other team members
• Address and resolve technical or procedural problems and advise technicians on the interpretation of results
• Develop and document new technologies and protocols into the laboratory
• Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate Research and Laboratory Technicians
• Monitor lab safety
• Act as a liaison to other research and administrative departments
• Establish laboratory standards and maintain records
• Write reports and contribute to scientific publication as warranted by the research
• Assist in the design and review of laboratory space, equipment procurement, and supply purchases

Qualifications

Required:

• PhD in a biological science and at least 3 years of relevant experience
• Excellent knowledge of fundamental molecular and cell biology
• A broad understanding of the techniques performed in the laboratory that include standard molecular biology techniques such as cloning, sequencing, RNA and DNA preparations, RT-PCR, Western blots, and tissue culture, as well as experience training individuals in these techniques

Preferred:

• PhD in a biological science and at least 5 years of relevant experience
   

To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your CV and a cover letter describing your research accomplishments, as well as contact information for three references.