Postdoctoral position – Mass spectrometry – Tobacco carcinogenesis

Irakly Shanidze

Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota

Postdoctoral Associate (Job ID 331135)

A Postdoctoral Associate position is available in the research group of Dr. Irina Stepanov in the Masonic Cancer Center (MCC), University of Minnesota, to conduct NIH-funded research on tobacco carcinogen exposure and DNA damage in tobacco users.

The laboratory specializes in the application of analytical biochemistry approaches, particularly mass-spectrometry methods, to the characterization of tobacco products and analyses of biomarkers of chemical carcinogen exposure, metabolism, and DNA damage. The successful candidate will apply existing methods for the analysis of biomarkers in biological samples collected from tobacco users and will develop analytical procedures for the analysis of new biomarkers. Troubleshooting and optimization of existing methods are expected.

The research responsibilities of a Postdoctoral Associate generally involve participation in the design, implementation, and evaluation of research projects. The appointee may participate in the preparation and presentation of data to study investigators, author, and co-author research papers, present results of studies at professional meetings, and may collaborate on grant proposals and progress reports.

Opportunity to work in a world-class mass spectrometry facility

Dr. Stepanov’s laboratory is located in the Cancer and Cardiovascular Research Building (CCRB) which offers 700,000 square feet of research space designed to foster interdisciplinary collaborations. CCRB houses the world-class Mass Spectrometry Laboratory, offering the successful candidate an opportunity to develop valuable mass-spectrometry expertise. A broad range of instrumentation is available for direct access and work, including several LC-triple quadrupoles, LC-ion traps, Thermo Scientific LTQ Orbitrap Velos, an LTQ Orbitrap Elite, a Fusion Tribrid a GC-triple quadrupole, TSQ Quantiva LC-triple quadrupole, and other instruments, such as GC with single or triple quadrupoles and an ICP-MS.

Required qualifications

  • Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field of science;
  • Strong background in analytical chemistry and/or experience with sample preparation techniques and trace analysis of biomarkers in human tissues, blood, or urine;
  • Experience with analytical instrumentation, particularly LC-tandem mass spectrometry, high-resolution mass spectrometry, and HPLC with UV and fluorescence detection;
  • Evidence of research and academic writing skills, such as track record of peer-reviewed publications.

Preferred qualifications

  • Experience with analysis of DNA adducts, particularly in small amounts of DNA;
  • Experience with, and knowledge of, possible difficulties in the analytical procedures, such as cross-contamination and artifact formation;
  • Collaborative and interpersonal skills, effective oral and writing communication skills;
  • Experience in supervising junior research staff.

Application link: https://hr.myu.umn.edu/jobs/ext/331135

With questions contact Dr. Irina Stepanov at stepa011@umn.edu