West Virginia University·West Virginia
The role involves maintaining human leukemia cell lines and performing various molecular and cellular biology techniques to support translational cancer research. Responsibilities also include analyzing experimental data and managing laboratory inventory and safety compliance.
The WVU Cancer Institute Department of Medical Oncology at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a (Hybrid) Research Assistant position. About the Opportunity The laboratory of Dr. Ashkan Emadi at the West Virginia University Cancer Institute is seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant to support translational cancer research focused on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and novel therapeutic approaches for hematologic malignancies. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, staff, and trainees to conduct laboratory experiments investigating cancer biology, drug response, and mechanisms of therapeutic resistance. We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
37.5-hour work week
13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
15 annual leave (vacation) days per year or more based on years of service (employee leave)
18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
401(a) retirement savings with 6%25 employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ’s.
Wellness programs What You'll Do Maintain and culture human leukemia cell lines and primary patient samples. Perform cell-based assays including viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and drug sensitivity studies. Conduct routine molecular and cellular biology techniques, including: Mammalian cell culture Flow cytometry Western blotting RNA and protein isolation qPCR and related assays Prepare reagents, buffers, and laboratory media. Record, organize, and analyze experimental data. Maintain laboratory inventory and assist with ordering supplies. Ensure compliance with laboratory safety and biosafety procedures. Participate in laboratory meetings and contribute to ongoing research projects. Pay Grade: 15
Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field. A minimum of 0-6 months related research experience. Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered. All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.
Strong organizational and communication skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
Prior experience with mammalian cell culture. Experience with flow cytometry, molecular biology, and cancer research techniques. Interest in pursuing a career in biomedical research, medicine, or related scientific fields.
A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field is required, with 0-6 months of related research experience. Preferred candidates have prior experience with mammalian cell culture and flow cytometry.
Market context
In West Virginia, hybrid research assistant roles in oncology are often shaped by steady demand from academic medical centers and cancer research programs. Candidates are competitive when they bring a biology-related degree plus hands-on lab skills such as mammalian cell culture and flow cytometry. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to quickly compare fit and save time before applying.