Research Assistant Professor, Cardiology

Department: MED-Cardiology

Salary/Grade: REF/RF

Research Scientist - Molecular Diagnostics and Liquid Biopsy: The Division of Cardiology, in the Department of Medicine at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine is seeking an experienced health scientist to join our team as a Research Assistant Professor.

Job Summary

The Research Assistant Professor will lead molecular biology research focused on circulating nucleic acids, including cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and microRNAs, to develop and apply genomic and transcriptomic assays for translational and clinical research. The scientist will design and implement sequencing- and PCR-based approaches to characterize molecular biomarkers and support collaborative research initiatives.

A completed application must include:

• Statement of relevant research experience and future research plans
• Curriculum Vitae
• Names of three (3) references (please include complete contact information for each reference)

Specific Responsibilities:

Experimental Design and Execution

• Design and conduct experiments involving cell-free DNA and circulating microRNAs from human biospecimens.
• Develop and optimize assays using quantitative PCR, digital PCR, and next-generation sequencing.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and quality control for sequencing workflows.
• Develop novel molecular protocols for low-input and fragmented nucleic acids.

Data Analysis and Interpretation

• Analyze sequencing and PCR data to quantify biomarkers and assess assay performance.
• Integrate molecular data with clinical and phenotypic datasets.
• Apply statistical and bioinformatics approaches for genomic and small-RNA analysis.

Research Leadership and Collaboration

• Lead independent projects and collaborate with investigators across clinical and translational science disciplines.
• Train students, postdoctoral fellows, and laboratory staff in molecular biology techniques.
• Contribute to collaborative translational studies and multicenter research initiatives.

Scholarly Activities

• Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to grant applications and progress reports.
• Maintain awareness of emerging technologies in molecular diagnostics and genomic analysis.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD level training, and research background in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with circulating nucleic acid or liquid biopsy research preferred.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Expertise in PCR-based assays and next-generation sequencing technologies.

• Demonstrated scientific productivity through publications.

Benefits:

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:

Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.

We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:

Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.

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