Research Associate 1

Working at Moffitt is both a career and a mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.

As the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida, Moffitt employs some of the best and brightest minds from around the world. Join a dedicated team of nearly 11,000 who are shaping the future we envision. Moffitt has been recognized as a Best and Brightest Company to Work For in the Nation and is continually named one of the Tampa Bay Times’ Top Workplaces.

 

Summary

The Research Associate I assumes the responsibility of performing basic, biological, behavioral, social science or public health research within the specified research program. The Research Associate provides technical and analytical supportfor various research programs across all Moffitt divisions and may have administrative and training responsibilities, as assigned. Research Associates work under the general supervision of a Principal Investigator (Pl) and may work as part toof a team under the direct supervision of more senior lab personnel. Research Associates participate in the planning, development, and implementation of original experimental procedures within the overall scope of the project.

 

Research Associate I 

Dr. Dorina Avram’s Laboratory  |  Department of Immunology 

Moffitt Cancer Center  •  Tampa, Florida 

Build a foundation in tumor immunology while contributing to research designed to improve how T cells fight cancer and form lasting immune memory. 

The Opportunity 
A Research Associate I position is available in the laboratory of Dorina Avram, PhD. We are seeking an enthusiastic, curious candidate with foundational knowledge of molecular biology and a strong commitment to research. Experience working with mouse models is preferred. 

Discover the Science of the Avram Lab 

The Avram Lab studies how immune-cell programs are controlled and how those programs can be redirected to strengthen responses against cancer. The laboratory focuses on: 

• Transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of immune responses in tumors and during infection. 

• T-cell biology, including the balance among stemness, cytotoxic function, exhaustion, memory, and tumor relapse. 

• BCL11B-driven immune programs and how modifying these pathways may enhance CD8+ T-cell activity in adoptive cell therapy and checkpoint-based treatment strategies. 

• Ubiquitin ligases and their potential roles as therapeutic targets in cancer, inflammation, and autoimmunity. 

What You Can Learn 

• How fundamental immunology connects to translational cancer research and emerging cellular immunotherapies. 

• How researchers investigate T-cell differentiation, function, exhaustion, and memory in preclinical models. 

• How molecular and cellular findings are generated, documented, interpreted, and communicated within a collaborative research team. 

• How rigorous laboratory operations, quality practices, and current scientific literature support reproducible research. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Perform hands-on laboratory activities in support of ongoing immunology and cancer research projects, following established protocols and training. 

• Assist with experiments involving molecular biology, immune-cell research, and mouse models, based on project needs and demonstrated competency. 

• Maintain laboratory equipment in clean working order and complete required instrument standardization and written documentation. 

• Reorder and restock laboratory supplies to support efficient daily operations. 

• Maintain accurate research records and follow laboratory safety, quality, and compliance procedures. 

• Remain current on relevant laboratory techniques, scientific literature, and research trends. 

Credentials and Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in a science-related field required. 

• Basic knowledge of molecular biology and a strong interest in immunology, cancer biology, or related research. 

• Experience working with mice preferred. 

• Strong attention to detail, organization, reliability, and willingness to learn new techniques. 

Why Moffitt 

Moffitt Cancer Center is an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. Join a collaborative research environment where scientific discovery is connected to Moffitt’s mission to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer. Tampa Bay offers a vibrant metropolitan setting with year-round outdoor activities, diverse communities, and a growing life-sciences ecosystem. 

• Eligibility for an annual Team Member Incentive. 

• Eligibility for an annual Team Member Merit Increase. 

• An inclusive benefits package with health, financial, and lifestyle coverage. 

How to Apply 

Submit your curriculum vitae, including a list of references, directly to [email protected] 

 

Salary Range

$19.65 - $29.94

Salary ranges posted for this position represent the expected base pay range for the role. Actual compensation may vary based on location and a variety of job-related factors, including experience, skills, education, and internal equity among Team Members in similar positions.

We are committed to maintaining fair and equitable pay practices and regularly review compensation to ensure alignment across our workforce.

 

Moffitt Career Site

 

 

If you have the vision, passion, and dedication to contribute to our mission,

then we have a place for you!

 

1. Equal Employment Opportunity

Moffitt Cancer Center is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or protected veteran or disabled status. We seek candidates whose skills, and personal and professional experience, have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to diversity and excellence.

2. Reasonable Accommodation

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