A position for a postdoctoral fellow or research associate is available immediately to develop a technology for spatial mapping of genetic and epigenetic changes in tumors. Primary objectives include the development of devices and protocols for amplification of DNA and mRNA in tumor sections while maintaining their spatial positions. This technology will lead to ground-breaking new understanding of genetic changes associated with diseases such as cancer as well as with embryonic development and regeneration. One of the ultimate goals is to develop a diagnostic solution for early detection of cancers based on changes occurring at the nucleic acid level.
Candidate must have strong background in chemistry/biochemistry. Desired qualifications include expertise in the field of molecular biology, especially DNA and RNA analyses. Candidates with additional experience in materials science and/or bioengineering will be given preference. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to learn and utilize multidisciplinary engineering experimental approaches. Responsibilities will include development and execution of experiments, data analysis, manuscript and grant preparation, presentation of results, and working with collaborators and other members of the research team. Applicant must hold an MS or Ph.D. or equivalent in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline. Applicant must be self-motivated, methodical, detail-oriented, and possess excellent oral and written skills. Remuneration will be commensurate with experience.
To apply, please email a CV (including publications and contact information for at least three references) and a cover letter to Dr. E. Smela (email: smela@umd.edu), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park 20754.
References
1. Armani M, Tangrea MA, Shapiro B, Emmert-Buck MR, Smela E. Anal Bioanal Chem. 2D-PCR: a method of mapping DNA in tissue sections. 2011 ;400(10):3383-93.
2. Armani M, Tangrea MA, Shapiro B, Emmert-Buck MR, Smela E. Quantifying mRNA levels across tissue sections with 2D-RT-qPCR.Anal Bioanal Chem. 2011 Jul; 400(10):3383-93.
