Careers

CSS Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber (www.wriwindber.org) is a leading integrated clinical and proteogenomic research organization focusing on cancer research through excellence in biobanking, informatics infrastructure, bioinformatics and translational research. Researchers analyze samples at the cellular and molecular level using advanced experimental platforms both in-house and in collaboration with other leading research institutions to identify biomarkers that are important to disease development and progress, so that new diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic targets can be developed. CSS Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber’s primary focus is improving patient care and the quality of life for the patient and their family by rapidly translating molecular and clinical research.

FULL-TIME POSITIONS


RESEARCH ASSOCIATE I – BIOBANK

Company: Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber
Location: Windber, PA
Position Overview:
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented individual to join our dynamic Biobank team. Our state-of-the-art biobank is a critical resource providing high-quality samples supporting numerous research projects. The successful candidate will be highly organized and detail-oriented and uphold strict standards for quality in our regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities:
• Inventory Management: Receive, organize, maintain and distribute biobank samples, ensuring accurate cataloging, storage and retrieval
• Data Management: Utilize biobank management software and Data Tracking Systems to update and manage sample data, ensuring meticulous record-keeping
• Equipment Maintenance: Maintain freezer farm and continuous monitoring systems while adhering to documentation requirements
• Specimen Processing: Fractionate blood samples into components using centrifugation
• Compliance: Adhere to all regulatory and ethical guidelines related to biobank management, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices
• Collaboration: Work closely with researchers and scientists to provide necessary samples for ongoing projects, with a focus on exemplary customer service.
• Quality Assurance: Participate in quality assurance activities, including audits and performance improvement initiatives to ensure the integrity and reliability of biobank samples

Qualifications/Skills:
• Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or other related field. Recent graduates are encouraged to apply
• Exceptional organizational skills with a keen eye for detail and the ability to strictly follow standard operating procedures
• Strong computer skills, proficiency in Microsoft applications and laboratory information management systems
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication, writing and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with team members
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues related to biobank inventory management efficiently
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience to careers@wriwindber.org. Please include “Research Associate II-Biobank” in the subject line.

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE II – BIOBANK
Company: Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber
Location: Windber, PA
Position Overview:
We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented individual to join our dynamic Biobank team. This position offers the opportunity to work in a regulated environment, using advanced technologies for research and biospecimen management. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in contributing to cutting-edge research projects.

Key Responsibilities:
• Conduct laboratory work utilizing basic molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Other activities will include, Western Blot and Spectrophotometry technologies
• Develop and validate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for projects
• Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment- troubleshoot, liaise with technical team
• Train on the use of new instrumentation and technologies which could include automated (robotic) liquid handling workstations
• Utilize Inventory Management and Data Tracking Systems in daily operations
• Collaborate with other research teams
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements – CAP and Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols.
• Participate in quality assurance activities, including audits, inspections, and performance improvement initiatives
• Assist with research reports, manuscript preparation for peer reviewed publications

Qualifications/Skills:
• Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or other related field with at least 4 years laboratory experience or Master’s degree (MSc) with a minimum of 1-year relevant experience
• Proficiency in basic molecular biology and protein chemistry techniques
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow protocols accurately
• Strong computer skills, proficiency in Microsoft applications and laboratory information management systems
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Excellent communication, writing and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience to careers@wriwindber.org. Please include “Research Associate II-Biobank” in the subject line. We look forward to receiving your application!
Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.

IT DEVELOPER III

This is an advanced developer position that is responsible for infrastructure development and providing informatics support to the operations in the institute and partners.  The position will focus on data management and data reporting throughout the organization to facilitate biobank and molecular lab operation.  A strong capability in database and software application development is critical to develop and maintain databases, and to conduct data modeling, querying, and analysis.  This position requires extensive communication with supervisors, peers, and subordinates, both within and outside the organization.  Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems Management, or related technical degree required.  Four years minimum of application development in C#, C++, Java, or other Object-Oriented language is required.  Three years minimum of developing web-based applications in a professional environment.  Experience in implementation of modern web-based user interface designs utilizing JavaScript, JQuery, HTML, CSS, Kendo UI and other technologies.

RESEARCH SCIENTIST – BIOBANK

This position seeks an individual with hands-on laboratory experience. The successful candidate will apply genomics and proteomics methods in research studies. Such studies will include biospecimen science studies that form the basis of evidence based practices which guide research activities utilizing human biospecimens. The candidate will design and execute experiments, trouble shoot and interpret data, conduct protocol optimization and validation. Manuscript preparation and communicating research findings through publications or oral/poster presentations. PhD in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry or other related field required. 2-4 years hands-on laboratory experience, good communication and writing skills required. The candidate should be self-motivated, and able to work independently and as a team member. New PhD graduates will be considered. The Biobank is a CAP accredited biobank.

BIOINFORMATICS SCIENTIST

The Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber (wriwindber.org) has been part of several major national cancer programs, including TCGA and the Cancer Moonshot Initiative. The institute is expanding and is hiring for multiple new Bioinformatics Scientist positions – at the Murtha Cancer Center Research Program (MCCRP) office in Bethesda, MD to join an experienced and highly collaborative team of clinicians, scientists, statisticians, and bioinformaticians in the fight against cancer! The level of the position will be considered based on candidate’s experience.

Key Responsibility:

  • Assess diverse clinical, genomic, and proteomic datasets from public domain and internal sources, for discovery as well as designing new projects
  • Support projects in the areas of study design, data QC, bioinformatics and statistical analysis, and data management
  • Perform analysis of proteogenomic data along with clinic-pathologic data in large cohorts, and synthesize and interpret results for presentations and publications
  • Develop or adopt innovative methods and metrics for data QC and predictive model
  • Promote the scientific interests of the institute through publication and community interaction

Requirement:

  • PhD degree in Bioinformatics or another relevant field, or a MS degree with minimum 3 years of direct experience in bioinformatics, statistics, or computational biology
  • Familiar with NGS applications for variant detection/interpretation and gene expression
  • Sound scientific logics for tertiary analysis and interpretation, backed by publications
  • Strong understanding of concepts and analytical techniques in statistics.
  • Proficient in R or another common statistical package.
  • Intermediate with Python or another scripting language
  • Familiar with Linux environment
  • Excellent in written and verbal communication in a collaborative environment
  • Self-motivated and good time management with evolving priorities

Desired: 

  • Experience in translational research or clinical trials, involving genomics or proteomics
  • Solid knowledge of cancer biology and cellular pathways
  • Familiar with public resources for cancer research and medical genetics
  • Experience with computation and data management in a cloud environment
  • Familiar with relational database or/and object-oriented database

Posting Date: August 16, 2023

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER

How to Apply

Please print and complete an application (link below) and submit with resume and cover letter by e-mail to careers@wriwindber.org, by mail or by fax 814-467-3453

Human Resources
Windber Research Institute
600 Somerset Avenue
Windber, PA  15963

Download Employment Application

https://www.windbercare.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Windber-Employee-Application-Fillable-1.pdf

Application:

Qualified applicants should send CV and salary requirements to: careers@wriwindber.org

CSS Institute of Molecular Medicine

Human Resources Department

600 Somerset Avenue

Windber, PA 15963

Fax: (814) 467-3453

EOE

All application materials are treated as confidential and are retained for a period of six months, at which time all resumes and applications are shredded. To apply for a position you must meet the minimum requirements as posted. Selection is based on education, experience and interview results. A criminal background check is required for all positions.

Windber Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate in its employment practices on the basis of sex, race, religion, national origin, color, age or non-job related handicap or disability.