Research Investigator - The Immunomodulation and Translational Research Program

The Immunomodulation and Translational Research Program in Department of Pediatrics, University of Missouri focuses on the development of novel biologics and their targeted delivery by various means, including biomaterials, for localized immunomodulation to prevent type 1 diabetes and allograft rejection (hematopoietic stem cells, stem cell-derived beta cells, pancreatic islets, heart, and kidney grafts) in rodents. The primary duties include: i) transplantation of pancreatic islets, heart, and kidney grafts in rodents; ii) various surgical manipulations of rodents, such as injections, blood and tissue collection; iii) cellular immunology (assessing antigen-driven T cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo, immune monitoring using flow cytometry, intracellular cytokine, ELISA); iv) immunohistochemistry; v) organize and analyze data for manuscripts and grant submissions as well ss oral presentations at local, national, and international meetings; vi) keep detailed record of experimental results; vii) assist with maintenance of regulatory requirements to conduct research, such as establish and maintain data files to ensure completion of all Institutional Animal Care/ Biosafety and Use documentation and compliance; and viii) responsible for the administrative management of the Research Animal Core Facilities within the unit.

Duties for this Position include: i) develop, execute, and evaluate experiments assessing immunomodulatory efficacy of select biologics for the prevention of type 1 diabetes using the NOD model; ii) pancreatic islet isolation, characterization, and transplantation, iii) analyze and organize data for detailed record keeping, grant and manuscript submissions as well as oral presentations at local, national, and international meetings; iv) contribute to ongoing research by active participation in lab discussions and training graduate students and technical personnel for desired techniques as needed.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Design and conduct studies that use novel biologics to modulate the immune response as a means of preventing rejection of cell (hematopoietic stem cells), tissues (pancreatic islets), an solid organs (heart and preferably kidney). The research will involve the design of biologics-based treatment regimens, transplantation of pancreatic islets heart or kidney grafts, immune monitoring using flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and confocal microscopy. Further duties include, preparation of scientific publications, assistance with grant applications, and provide technical teaching/training support to graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and technicians.

This position requires a minimum of 3 years of experience in microsurgery, particularly solid organs in rodents, and basic laboratory experience. Although candidates with Ph.D., M.D. or D.V.M. are preferable, those with an undergraduate degree and demonstrated track record in rodent solid organ transplantation will also be considered. Effective oral and written and interpersonal communications skills as well as proficiency in word, excel, power point, and statistical softwares.

Canidates will be evaluated on:
Expertise in heart or kidney transplantation, islet isolation, functional characterization and transplantation, cell culture, multiparameter flow cytometry, and basic molecular immunology techniques. Handling mice and performing various manipulations, including injections via different routes, harvesting lymphoid tissues and blood.

Be prepared to upload a CV.

This position is eligible for University benefits. The University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, and educational fee discounts. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at http://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits

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