Research Scientist

Conducts independent scientific research projects from inception to presentation. Prepares and crafts various documentations of research results into manuscripts, proposals, grant applications, and presentations. Trains undergraduates and research technicians. Manages laboratory policies and coordinates project development in collaboration with other specialists.

UPCI Research Lab-Nedrow

The Nedrow and Sheikh laboratories at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center are seeking a highly motivated research scientist to join a dynamic, fast‑paced translational oncology research environment at the University of Pittsburgh. This role will work independently under the mentorship of Dr. Saad Sheikh, physician–scientist in the Department of Radiation Oncology, and Dr. Jessie Nedrow, research scientist in the Department of Radiology.

The selected candidate will conduct preclinical and translational research focused on the development of radiopharmaceutical imaging agents and targeted radiotherapeutics for cancer, with an emphasis on pediatric brain tumors and pancreatic cancer. Experimental responsibilities will include cell culture, flow cytometry, CRISPR‑based gene editing, Western blotting, DNA/RNA extraction, and cell viability assays. In vivo studies will involve mouse handling and husbandry, orthotopic tumor implantation, delivery of external beam radiation and radiopharmaceutical therapies, longitudinal tumor monitoring using multimodal imaging, tissue harvesting, and coordination with the Small Animal Multimodal Imaging and Radiopharmaceutical Applications Core at the Hillman Cancer Center. Additional technical experience may include conjugation chemistry, radiochemistry, and molecular biology techniques related to antibody‑ or fragment‑based PET imaging agents and radiotherapeutics.

The research scientist will lead independent research projects and, under the guidance of Drs. Sheikh and Nedrow, will be responsible for experimental planning, data analysis and interpretation, and preparation of datasets, figures, and reports using appropriate software tools. Additional duties include preparing regular progress reports, conducting literature reviews, summarizing findings, and developing high‑quality figures, tables, and graphs for dissemination. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required, as the candidate will be expected to draft manuscripts, contribute to grant proposals, and present research findings at scientific conferences.

Essential Functions

Cell culture, animal work, flow cytometry, in-vivo imaging, radiochemistry, external beam radiation treatment, tail vein and intrathecal injections, protocol preparation, manuscript preparation, presentations.

Physical Effort

Moderate physical effort required. May be required to stand/move for several hours at a time.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.

Assignment Category

Full-time regular

Job Classification

Staff.Research Scientist

Job Family

Research

Job Sub-Family

Research Science

Campus

Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required

Professional Doctorate Degree

Minimum Years Of Experience Required

5

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience?

No

Work Schedule

9Am - 5PM, 37\.5 hours / week

Work Arrangement

On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.

Hiring Range

$62,500 - $71,500

Relocation Offered

No

Visa Sponsorship Provided

Yes

Background Check

For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances

Not Applicable

Required Documents

Resume

Optional Documents

Cover Letter