Research assistant in translational research on leukemia niche, - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

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Division

Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine (HERM) is a research unit within the Department of Medicine Huddinge with a focus on bringing together basic and clinical competences to pursue cutting-edge research improving the understanding of mechanisms involved in normal and malignant hematopoiesis. The ultimate goal is to translate novel scientific findings from basic research into the clinic, thereby improving patient outcome.

Description of the group

The vision of Hong Qian’s group is to unravel the role of hematopoietic niche including mesenchymal stem cells in myeloid leukemia.  The ultimate goal is to identify new niche-based therapeutic targets for better treatment outcome of the leukemia.

The group so far has been mainly focusing on the mesenchymal niche in myeloid leukemia in patients and mouse models. The group has identified a set of molecules that are dysregulated in leukemia niche. The main technologies used include multi-color flow cytometry, confocal imaging, lineage tracing, in vitro and in vivo stem cell function assays including coculture and transplantation, as well as advanced molecular tools including RNA sequencing, digital PCR and single cell PCR.

Description of the position

Position duration: Applicants are invited to submit applications for a 6-month-research assistant position, with the possibility of a one-year extension after a careful evaluation.

Duties and requirement

The main duties of the research assistant are to assist the group in the projects on functional evaluation of various niche factors in the survival of leukemic stem cells by performing cell co-culture, flow cytometry, PCR-based genotyping and gene quantification. Specifically, the research assistant will be required to perform mesenchymal stem cell isolation, testing new reagents, as well as basic cell culture work. The research assistant will also be responsible to plan, perform and analyze some experiments within a project, independently or under supervision of the group leader or group members.

Key responsibilities

• Organize, plan, perform and analyze experiments on functional characterization of leukemia niche using patient materials and animal modelling.
• Organize, prepare, test and optimize common lab reagents, e.g. antibodies and keep up-to-date records
• Assist and work closely with other lab members on experimental work conducted in the laboratory

The successful candidate will conduct the research with a special focus on deciphering molecular pathways mediating leukemic stem cell interaction with their niche under the supervision of the group leader (Dr. Hong Qian). In addition, the candidate is also expected to participate in collaborated projects.

It is considered as a merit if the applicant has experience in normal or malignant hematopoietic stem cell research.

Entry requirements

We are seeking a highly motivated, responsible and organized candidate with experience in mouse genotyping, flow cytometry analyses and general cell culture.

Good knowledge of the English language is required.

The applicant must be able to work flexibly and in a high-paced research environment.

Applicants should have been or will soon (within 6 months) be granted a Master degree within Molecular Biology and translational research.

Essential requirements

• at least Master degree in Molecular Biology or biomedicine or Medicine
• Good proficiency of spoken and written English
• Strong organizational skills and detail-oriented
• Flow cytometry experience
• Cell culture experience, particularly in function assays for stem cells.

Desired requirements

• Experience in leukemia niche
• Experience in drug testing
• Experience with mouse work

Personal suitability will be a strong selection criterion

What do we offer?

Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct innovative medical research and provide the largest range of biomedical education in Sweden. Karolinska Institutet is a state university, which entitles employees to several benefits such as extended holiday and a generous occupational pension. Employees also have free access to our modern gym and receive reimbursements for medical care.

Location: Flemingsberg

Application

The application must contain the following documents in English:

• Personal letter (maximum 1 page)
• Curriculum vitae (maximum 2 pages)
• Reference letters from 2 references or contact information from 2 references

Welcome to apply at the latest 2021-12-14.

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