Research Scientist - Department of Urology

The Houston Methodist Department of Urology and the U54 funded specialized center for spatial biology in GU Oncology are seeking an early-stage or mid-level investigator (equivalent to Assistant or Associate Professor level). The ideal candidate will have a strong research track record in translational cancer biology, the stromal or immune tumor microenvironment, the microbiome, or other mechanisms regulating cancer progression and therapy response. Preferred candidates will have expertise in integrating spatial profiling technologies or artificial intelligence into their study designs within the field of GU Oncology. Candidates working on other cancer types are also welcome, given they have an interest in applying their research to GU malignancies. A strong publication record and a demonstrated ability to secure extramural training or federal funding are highly desirable.

The new lab will be housed in a state-of-the-art research center with easy access to cutting-edge instrumentation, including but not limited to scRNA-seq processors, spatial-omics technologies (e.g., 10X CytAssist, 10X Xenium, Akoya Phenocycler), and flow cytometry platforms such as the Cytek analyzer and sorter. The selected individual will receive substantial institutional support, including dedicated lab space, startup funds, departmental resources, and operational assistance. They will be expected to establish an independent research portfolio, secure extramural funding, and produce high-impact publications, with the ultimate goal of translating research from bench to bedside. Collaboration with translational and clinical faculty within the department and center is strongly encouraged.

Interested candidates please kindly send their CV and a 2-3 page independent research plan to the Center Director Dr. Keith Syson Chan via administrative support, Christine Nguyen, at clnguyen@houstonmethodist.org.

PEOPLE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Under the direction of a Principle Investigator (PI), coordinates and provides technical direction to the work activities of research staff engaged in projects.

• Performs procedures which require a highly developed technical skill.

• Conducts self in a manner that is congruent with cultural diversity, equity and inclusion principles. Contributes towards improvement of department scores for employee engagement, i.e. peer-to-peer accountability.

SERVICE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Designs, develops, or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results.

• Establishes procedures to be applied for projects.

• Participates in writing manuscripts and publications.

QUALITY/SAFETY ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Compiles, writes, and submits project results to the principle investigator.

• Designs, develops, or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results.

• Analyzes data and interprets data.

• Defines problems and possible solutions as dictated by the research project.

FINANCE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Participates in grant writing the specific grant(s).

• Utilizes resources with cost effectiveness and value creation in mind. Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks, assisting coworkers as needed.

GROWTH/INNOVATION ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Reviews scientific literature.

• Seeks opportunities to identify self-development needs and takes appropriate action. Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management. Completes and updates the My Development Plan on an on-going basis.

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive; the employee will also perform other reasonably related business/job duties as assigned. Houston Methodist reserves the right to revise job duties and responsibilities as the need arises.

EDUCATION

• Doctorate degree in related field

WORK EXPERIENCE

• Experience in related field of study