Research Associate I - Radiation Oncology Academics, Nguyen Lab

Job Description

The laboratory of Dr. Anthony T. Nguyen, MD, PhD, at the renowned Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, is seeking a motivated and skilled Research Associate I to contribute to our groundbreaking research in cancer biology and cancer immunology. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a highly collaborative team dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the tumor microenvironment and advancing innovative therapeutic strategies. This position is intentionally structured as a strong professional development foundation for individuals planning to pursue graduate school, medical school, or advanced research training.

Position Expectations & Qualifications:

• Willingness and comfort working with mouse models
• Prior hands-on laboratory experience strongly preferred (including undergraduate research experience)
• Ability to work fully onsite; candidates must reside within a commutable distance
• Strong motivation to learn, contribute, and grow in a rigorous research environment

Under the mentorship of Dr. Nguyen, you will develop critical technical and analytical skills essential for competitive graduate and medical programs. The laboratory has a demonstrated track record of supporting Research Associates in:

• Presenting abstracts at national and international scientific meetings
• Contributing to peer-reviewed publications
• Successfully transitioning into graduate programs, medical school, and advanced scientific training

This role offers structured mentorship, meaningful scientific engagement, and a clear pathway for professional advancement within a nationally recognized cancer research institute. It is an outstanding stepping stone for individuals serious about building a career in biomedical research or academic medicine.

ABOUT CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER:

Ranked among the top ten hospitals nationwide for federal research funding, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is home to over 1,500 active research projects. At the Cedars-Sinai Cancer Center, our researchers strive to revolutionize cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Situated in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, adjacent to Beverly Hills and in close proximity to the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Cedars-Sinai offers a dynamic and stimulating environment for scientific growth. With ongoing education and training opportunities, promotions, competitive salaries, and excellent benefits, we prioritize the professional development and well-being of our team members.

NGUYEN LAB FOCUS:

The primary objective of our laboratory is to understand the intricate interactions between advanced solid cancers and the immune cells of the tumor microenvironment. By identifying molecular vulnerabilities created by immunotherapy and radiotherapy, we aim to develop novel therapies, particularly in the areas of breast cancer and prostate cancer. We use complementary approaches, including integrating functional genomics, proteomics, and biochemistry techniques. Our advanced methodologies include single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial single-cell transcriptomics, flow cytometry, and state-of-the-art mass spectrometry technologies.

As a Research Assistant in the Nguyen Lab, you will have the opportunity to:

• Organize and manage experiments in a dynamic environment.
• Execute experiments and critically analyze the results under the supervision of the PI or other lab members.
• Present data at lab meetings to contribute to scientific discussions.
• Assist in drafting study protocols under the guidance of the PI.

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

• A bachelor's degree (with prior lab experience).
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong collaborative skills.
• Ability to perform and prioritize multiple simultaneous tasks.

Preferred:

• Technical proficiency in cell culture and hands-on mouse work (s.c, i.v, i.p. injections). Previous experience in mouse work is preferred, but not required for this position.
• Some experience in flow cytometry is preferred but not required.
• Previous experience with basic molecular biology techniques is preferred but not required.