Research Associate, Proteomics & Flow Cytometry

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Position Summary:

The Researcher 1 will support the research laboratories of Drs. Zihai Li and Tim Zhang within the OSUCCC – James Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO). This position will contribute to integrated experimental and computational studies focused on protein homeostasis, immune cell function, and cancer immunotherapy, with a strong emphasis on experimental and computational proteomics.

The research program seeks to define how proteotoxic stress responses and protein quality control mechanisms shape immune cell biology, including T cell dysfunction and exhaustion in cancer, and to leverage proteomic technologies and data-driven approaches to identify novel therapeutic targets. The Researcher 1 will participate in the planning, execution, and analysis of interdisciplinary projects that combine wet-lab experimentation with quantitative proteomic and bioinformatic strategies.

Primary Responsibilities:

Flow Cytometry Instrument Maintenance, Standardization, and Quality Assurance

• Participate in the planning and execution of research projects using molecular and cellular biology techniques, including tissue culture, SDS-PAGE, western blotting, PCR, immune cell isolation, mouse handling and injections, and proteomics sample preparation. (35%)
• Support experimental and computational proteomics workflows, including sample processing, data organization, quality control, and coordination with mass spectrometry and bioinformatics pipelines. (15%)
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental and proteomic datasets; assist in the development and implementation of new experimental or computational methodologies. (15%)
• Perform literature reviews and contribute to manuscripts, grant proposals, and scientific presentations related to immunology, proteostasis, and proteomics-based discovery. (15%)
• Monitor and enforce laboratory safety procedures; ensure compliance with institutional, biosafety, and federal regulations. (10%)
• Train research staff and students as needed and assist with daily laboratory operations, including procurement, inventory, and equipment maintenance. (10%)

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required. Master's Degree preferred. 1-3 years of relevant experience required. 3-5 years of relevant experience preferred.

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, biochemistry, computational biology, bioengineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Ability to translate and apply academic knowledge in biological and quantitative research environments.
• Experience in a research capacity preferred, particularly in immunology, proteomics, molecular biology, or data-driven biology.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Experience: Proficient knowledge of immunology. Demonstrated success in training and supervising others. Demonstrated experience with data analysis platforms and making figures suitable for scientific presentations (e.g., FlowJo, DiVa, Omiq), Microsoft Office products (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and other common tools. Training in bacteriological, viral, chemical, and physical safety. Proficiency with Macintosh or PCs and handheld devices. Able to work safely in a BSL2 environment.

Include in your application, a cover letter, CV, and contact information for three professional references

Function: Research and Scholarship

SubFunction: Research

Career Band: Individual Contributor - Specialized

Career Level: S1

Additional Information

The OSUCCC – James is the only cancer program in the United States that features a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer center aligned with a nationally ranked academic medical center and a freestanding cancer hospital on the campus of one of the nation’s largest public universities.

The Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) is a comprehensive bench-to-bedside research enterprise focused on advancing cancer immunotherapy through fundamental discovery, translational research, and clinical innovation. The laboratories of Drs. Zihai Li and Tim Zhang combine immunology, protein biology, and experimental and computational proteomics to uncover how protein homeostasis networks regulate immune responses in cancer and to accelerate the development of next-generation immunotherapeutic strategies.

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Thank you for your interest in working at Ohio State.

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.