Research Technician

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The In Vivo Evaluation Group, BTB, DTP is establishing both in vitro and in vivo tumor lines from patient biopsies from DCTD sponsored clinical trials with the goal of developing models for NCI's Patient Derived Models Repository (PDMR). The PDMR is a repository of patient-derived models that include in vivo tumor fragments, in vitro tumor lines (2D and 3D), cancer associated fibroblasts, and DNA/RNA isolates. The goal of the PDMR is to distribute well validated and highly characterized material to researchers worldwide. A secondary mission is to evaluate the efficacy of approved oncology drugs in combination or as single agents in a subset of rare and recalcitrant PDX tumor models.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implant biopsied tumor material derived from patients into mice/rats, monitor the mice/rats daily for tumor growth, measure tumors, harvest tumor tissue for the repository and provide tumor material to staff for the establishment of in vitro cultures, quality control, RNA and DNA preparation for sequencing
• Update the patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tracking sheets and log experimental data into Studylog
• The maintenance of proper records is critical as each patient sample will be passaged and expanded multiple times in NSG mice or in rats
• Perform drug toxicity and drug efficacy studies that require administration of test agents by multiple routes (IV, IP, PO, SC) on schedules varying from a single dose to multiple times per day for multiple days/weeks depending on the agents administered
• Maintain a proper living environment for test animals
• Aid in any other routine tasks as needed (tube labeling, sample deliveries/pick-ups, autoclaving instruments, etc.)
• Occasional weekend work is required
• Tasks are performed independently and initially will involve training and supervision

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of a BS/BA degree from an accredited college or university (according to CHEA) (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• Proficiency with Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office
• Demonstrated organizational skills and database management skills
• Ability to maintain precise records
• Ability to be flexible to meet changing needs
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Ability to work alone as well as part of a team
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Previous animal handling experience
• Knowledge of basic necropsy techniques
• Experience with IV, IP, PO, SC injections
• Previous experience working under ABSL-2 conditions

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to animal(s) and/or animal material(s)
• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations