Senior Research Specialist - Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies

Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland.

Work Shift:

8 Hours - Day Shifts (United States of America)

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Compensation:

Salary Range: $24.00 - $38.50

Union Position:

No

Department Details

Cancer doesn’t just alter gene expression – it rewires alternative splicing of RNA. Tumor microenvironmental stress, such as metabolic starvation, drives alternative splicing changes that fuel tumor growth, metastasis and therapy resistance.

This lab deciphers how these stresses reshape splicing programs by identifying the isoforms that emerge and the RNA-binding proteins that control them, uncovering new mechanisms and therapeutic targets in aggressive cancers. By leveraging cutting-edge short-read and long-read sequencing in metabolically stressed cells and patient samples, the lab aims to map splicing regulation with unprecedented precision, opening new avenues for targeted therapies and transforming cancer treatment.

This lab is driven by optimism, hard work and focus. Beyond advancing research, the Khurshid Lab is deeply committed to training the next generation of scientists, nurturing curiosity, resilience and ethics, and innovating to tackle the challenges of tomorrow, ultimately improving patient care.

Summary

Performs non-complex to moderately-complex laboratory testing, experiments and analyses following established protocols. Performs research through experimentation and appropriate literature.

Job Description

This position is responsible for conducting complex laboratory procedures, maintaining regulatory compliance, managing laboratory operations and shared resources, analyzing and presenting research data, and supporting the training and supervision of students and technical staff. The Senior Research Specialist works independently while collaborating closely with investigators, laboratory personnel, and institutional support staff to maintain an efficient and productive research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and support complex laboratory experiments and research procedures following established protocols.

• Maintain accurate, detailed, and organized records of research activities, experimental procedures, and study progress.

• Compile, analyze, and interpret research data; prepare figures, graphs, and summaries for presentations, reports, and publications.

• Present research findings and project updates at weekly laboratory meetings and other scientific forums.

• Ensure compliance with institutional, regulatory, and safety requirements, including maintaining regulatory documentation and training records.

• Assist with laboratory purchasing, inventory management, vendor coordination, and budget-related activities.

• Participate in regular meetings with research staff to address laboratory operations, facility needs, equipment management, purchasing, and cross-laboratory collaboration.

• Train, mentor, and may supervise students, interns, research assistants, and other technical personnel.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a clinical, health or life science field required.

Minimum of two years of relevant research experience required. Leadership and/or management experience highly recommended.

Sanford is an EEO/AA Employer M/F/Disability/Vet. 

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation for help with your online application, please call 1-877-949-5678 or send an email to [email protected].