The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) is seeking Research Associate with broad expertise in mammalian cell culture, including cell line and assay development as well as subsequent implementation in cell-based screening platforms. The Research Associate will have drug discovery experience and a track record of delivering and maintaining high quality cell lines for HTS and HCS purposes.

The responsibilities include:

• Maintain and propagate mammalian cells in culture;
• Develop and maintain cell lines from primary tumour samples;
• Play a key role in the day-to-day, hands-on performance of laboratory work and be capable of troubleshooting cell culture issues;
• Successfully develop, validate, optimize and implement assays to support identification and validation of oncology targets;
• Implement effective screening paradigms to expedite the drug discovery process and reach team milestones;
• Analyze data and provide regular updates to Project Team;
• Work effectively under pressure and tight timelines;
• Communicate effectively.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, cell biology or pharmacology with up to five years’ experience, or master’s degree in biochemistry, cell biology or pharmacology with up to two years experience in cell line development and maintenance;
• Experience in the development and execution of small molecule screens in a biotech or pharmaceutical company;
• Experience in the development of functional assays to support medicinal chemistry efforts (i.e., using whole cell, enzyme based, protein/protein interaction assays);
• Knowledge of drug discovery processes and timelines;
• A strong background in molecular oncology and related signal transduction pathways is preferred;
• Great team player and excellent interpersonal skills;
• Highly motivated self-starter who enjoys an element of ambiguity and is willing to adapt to a changing environment.

OICR is an innovative cancer research institute located in the MaRS Centre in the Discovery District in downtown Toronto. OICR is addressing significant challenges in cancer research with multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional teams. New discoveries to prevent, detect and treat cancer will be moved from the bench to practical applications in patients. The OICR team is growing quickly. We are innovative, dedicated professionals who bring expertise to each of our roles. We are looking for individuals interested in being part of a culture of excellence that will result in Ontario being recognized internationally as a leading jurisdiction for cancer research.
Launched in December 2005, OICR is an independent institute funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Economic Development and Innovation.
For more information about OICR, please visit the website at www.oicr.on.ca .
POSTED DATE: July 24, 2012
CLOSING DATE: Posted until filled
Ontario Institute for Cancer Research - 9 months ago