# Scientist

**Company:** [Axle](https://hotfix.jobs/companies/axle)
**Location:** Bethesda, MD
**Role:** Data Science
**Salary:** $80k – $87k/yr
**Experience:** 2+ years
**Skills:** immunology, molecular biology, mouse handling, flow cytometry, cell culture, western blotting, pcr, immunoprecipitation, confocal microscopy, Data Analysis, Microsoft Office
**Posted:** 2026-07-20

> PhD scientist conducting translational cancer research focused on drug development, performing in vitro/in vivo assays on immune and cancer cells in mouse models, analyzing data, and authoring publications in Dr. U. Rudloff's lab at NCI. Requires 2+ years lab experience in immunology/molecular biology.

## Job Description

## Responsibilities
- Conduct laboratory-based translational research with a focus on drug development for the treatment of cancer.
- Study cultured human and animal cell lines (some derived from cancer tissue) and analyze human and/or animal tissues with and without cancer.
- Perform sophisticated genetic, biological, and biochemical assays including DNA transfection of cells, monolayer and anchorage-independent growth assays, immunoprecipitation assays, agarose gel electrophoresis, in vivo and in vitro kinase assays, and confocal immune-confocal microscopy of cells.
- Support planning and execution of research experiments aligned with the laboratory's overall research program.
- Initiate, design, and develop new projects or assays to advance cancer research, diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines.
- Serve as an authority on tumor biology and assays performed.
- Interpret results, identify shortcomings or pitfalls, and redirect studies for improved outcomes.
- Identify needs for further investigations and propose changes in research direction based on findings and objectives.
- Support laboratory staff on research projects and techniques.
- Work with scientific staff to define key questions from research projects involving in vitro and in vivo analysis of novel therapeutics' impact on immune cells, cancer cells, and mouse-grown tumors, including mechanisms of cell transformation, molecular targets, and biomarker development.
- Collaborate with scientists, statisticians, and expert staff at NCI, NIH, and extramural institutions to advance projects.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and train others in their use.
- Assist in maintaining adequate space and facilities for research studies.
- Evaluate, analyze, and interpret research data; communicate results via reports, presentations, and manuscripts.
- Attend seminars, pursue additional training, participate in meetings and discussions.
- Make oral presentations at conferences and seminars.
- Prepare data sets, tables, figures, and write first-author papers for peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate in special committees, panels, and colloquia.

## Requirements
- Ph.D. in Biology, Life Sciences, or related discipline.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a laboratory environment.
- Research experience in immunology and/or molecular biology.
- Expertise in mouse handling procedures (intraperitoneal/intravenous injections, tumor measurements, dissections).
- Expertise in immunologic studies including multi-parameter flow cytometric processing and data analysis.
- Expertise in in-vitro functional assays including cell culture, stimulation, proliferation, and cytokine production.
- Expertise in molecular techniques including DNA/RNA extraction and quantification, gel electrophoresis, western blotting, PCR, and immunoprecipitation.
- Knowledge of confocal microscopy (helpful but optional).
- Ability to learn new techniques and teach them to others.
- Knowledge of proper laboratory techniques, disposal methods, laboratory safety procedures, and universal precautions.
- Ability to work independently on projects.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and time management skills.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

## Nice-to-Haves
- Experience with confocal microscopy.

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