The Department of Pathology and Cell Biology at the Columbia University Medical Center is recruiting an Associate Research Scientist in the laboratory of Dr. Kevin Gardner. The incumbent will study the basic mechanisms of epigenetic gene regulation in breast cancer. The position will have an integrated focus on fundamental mechanisms of chromatin-based transcriptional control and epigenetic regulation with an emphasis on the role of metabolic imbalance in regulating these pathways in breast cancer (Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2009 Nov 17;106(46):19286-91; Nat Struct Mol Biol. 2010 Dec;17(12):1406-13; Nat Commun. 2012 Jan 17;3:633; Nat Commun. 2013;4:1449). Major goals include understanding the role of metabolism and transcriptional cross-talk between epigenetic co-regulators and hormone receptor-mediated signaling pathways in both enhancer function and promoter-targeted mechanisms of gene control. An essential component of this work will involve developing omic perspectives that will integrate next-generation sequencing with genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics and metabolomics using model systems and patient-derived samples. The projects will be supported by access to an established cohort of diverse breast cancer patient samples with extensive molecular and genomic characterization to aid in developing translation perspectives in gene-network and pathway discovery that will have practical implications for improving breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. 

Other responsibilities will include: 

Managing the day to day operations of the laboratory. 
Maintenance of cell lines and carrying out immunoprecipitation assays. Ordering and maintaining inventory of laboratory supplies. Keeping track of orders and confirming billing. Setting up and performing experiments involving tissue culture, western blot, DNA, RNA, analysis. Maintaining records pertaining to the laboratory, including records of experimental results. 
Operating, maintaining and troubleshooting complex equipment (e.g. ABI 7300 Real-Time PCR system). 
Assisting in the training of new hires and other supporting staff. Enforcing safety regulations and helping to train students and fellows in laboratory procedures. Performing other related duties as necessary to the functioning of the laboratory.