Research Scientist

The Laboratory of Dr Xiaoyan Zheng in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and the Cancer Center at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences seeks a highly motivated Research Scientist. Our primary research interest is in identifying target genes regulated by the Hh signal and thus to understand the molecular mechanisms employed by the Hh signaling pathway in regulating cell-cell interactions (I). In parallel, we are interested in developing novel reagents and experimental approaches combined with cutting-edge imaging technologies to study the biochemical and cell biological principles governing a critical yet poorly understood step of Hh signal transduction: trafficking of Hh receptors (II). These studies have broad potential significance for our understanding of the molecular basis of both development and human diseases linked to Hh pathway dysfunction, as well as for providing a basis for therapeutic modulation of pathway activity, either positively to stimulate regeneration or negatively to block malignant growth.

This position is responsible for planning, conducting and supervising research at a high level, by designing and conducting experiments in a controlled laboratory setting. Using extensive experience and judgment, this role will plan independent research, analyze and interpret data, publish results, represent the university at conferences and meetings, develop new theories and methodologies, and will lead and direct the work of lower level research staff, while transferring technical expertise.

Duties include:

- Design and implement research protocols; design safety procedures; adapt new procedures, methods or instrumentation relative to research procedures.

- Collect, prepare and analyze research data; keep a detailed notebook summarizing experiments and recording research data; maintain computer database of research data; tabulate and display data for presentation in research conferences and for manuscript preparation; use graphics and statistical software to analyze and present data; search pertinent scientific literature as needed.

- Supervise other personnel in the laboratory; participate in training of fellows, residents,
students and volunteer workers as needed.

- Oversee reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, animal maintenance; assist with ordering and procurement and with general maintenance of laboratory.

Performs other related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.

- Familiarity with cell-cell signaling
- Strong background in biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology
- Demonstrated experience in using Drosophila or mouse as a model system