Research Assistant – Cancer Biology Lab

About the role

The Biological Sciences Program at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar seeks a full‑time Research Assistant to support a project investigating how the extracellular matrix regulates metastatic breast cancer progression. This 1‑year and 6‑month fixed‑term position combines molecular biology, cell biology, protein biochemistry, and cancer biology to uncover gene‑regulatory mechanisms driving tumor progression.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain mammalian cell cultures under BSL‑2 conditions.
• Perform RNA and miRNA extraction, end‑point and quantitative PCR.
• Conduct flow cytometry, Western blotting, and quantitative protein analysis.
• Execute mammalian cell transfections, gene knockdown/overexpression using electroporation and Lipofectamine.
• Assist with flow cytometry experiments and data analysis.
• Carry out molecular cloning and plasmid validation.
• Collect, analyze, and document experimental data.
• Supervise and mentor undergraduate researchers.
• Participate in lab meetings, manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and reports.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques.
• Proficiency in qPCR, miRNA biology, and Western blotting.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and excellent written/oral English communication.
• Ability to work independently and contribute effectively within a collaborative team.

Required skills

• Mammalian cell culture
• Quantitative PCR (qPCR)
• miRNA extraction and analysis
• Western blotting
• Flow cytometry
• Molecular cloning
• RNA interference (siRNA, miRNA, morpholinos)
• Cell migration and adhesion assays
• Bioinformatics or RNA‑seq analysis
• Electroporation and Lipofectamine‑based transfection

What we offer

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and prescription insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits and ample paid time off with observed holidays.
• Life, accidental death, and disability insurance.
• Free public‑transport pass, fitness‑center access, and family‑concierge services.