The Sharifi laboratory focuses on mechanistic discovery to understand the metabolic and molecular mechanisms of androgen synthesis and androgen receptor gain-of-function that lead to prostate cancer resistance to hormonal therapy.  The work is revealing fundamental endocrine mechanisms in both normal physiology and disease, including stress, and glucocorticoid resistance that will lead to broad applications to oncology and cancer physiology. Specific areas include:

•  Metabolic and genetic changes required for hormone therapy resistance in prostate and breast cancers

•  Discovery of entirely new mechanisms of endocrine physiology and regulation

•  Clinical validation in patients and clinical trials using innovative approaches

•   Animal models of advanced cancer for translational and therapeutic studies

•  Identifying targets for the development of new pharmacologic therapies

•  Drug discovery for new therapies           

This position is ideal for an individual with a strong interest in rapid translation of basic mechanistic discoveries to the bedside as this is a principal goal of the Sharifi Laboratory. For example, they have shown that our discovery of a gain-of-function in a steroid-synthesizing enzyme is a predictive biomarker of poor outcomes after hormonal therapy (Hearn, et al. Lancet Oncol. 2016;17:1435-44; JAMA Oncol. 2018;4:558-62; JAMA Oncol. 2020;6(4):e196496).  Dr. Sharifi’s group is currently evaluating this biomarker in an active clinical trial, and pursuing similar mechanisms and developing new treatment modalities based on these discoveries. 

The position will provide a unique and multidisciplinary exposure to tumor metabolism, molecular oncology, drug development, and clinical trials. 

The ideal candidate has a Ph.D. degree in biochemistry, chemistry or molecular biology; has the appropriate expertise in discovery of molecular, biochemical or chemical mechanisms; and is highly driven. Outstanding verbal and communication skills are required.

Interested candidates should send their CV and contact information for 3 references to: nimasharifi@miami.edu.

The Scientific Writer will be responsible for the writing and design of well-organized, high-quality, and error-free grant applications and other scientific communication materials on a wide range of research topics in coordination with department faculty and staff. Applicants must have a background in the fundamental mechanisms of human biology, biochemistry, metabolism, and genetics; as well as knowledge of relevant guidelines and application requirements to federal funding agencies including NIH, DOD, and/or NSF.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Creates, implements, and maintains competitive application templates for grant proposals.

Formats substantive copy and scientific editing, proofreading, and finalizing documents as required.

Ensures the readability, clarity, consistency, and conformance of scientific communications to applicable submissions requirements, regulations, and guidelines.

Reviews and ensures document language is scientifically/medically correct, responsive to the document requirements, consistent, and justifiable; notifies appropriate PI or leader and suggestion alternative language, as required.

Communicates (telephone, email, meetings) with principal investigator and key senior leadership authors as necessary to ensure the accuracy and clarity of documents; meets both internal and sponsor submission deadlines.

Researches, composes, and edits clinical/statistical reports, and clinical study protocols and data for submission to appropriate governmental/regulatory agencies.

Works closely with presenters in the development of scientific presentations, ensuring accuracy and adherence to length and time allowed for presentation.

Obtains and maintains the documentation for any required copyright transfers, conflict of interest statements, or other publisher-specific requirements.

Tracks progress and responds to publication queries, as appropriate.

Adheres to University and unit-level policies and procedures and safeguards University assets.

CORE QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field required, PhD preferred.

3+ years of experience in science communication, specifically writing or editing.

Knowledge of multiple writing style guides and requirements for applications to federal funding agencies including NIH, DOD, and/or NSF.

Exceptional communication (written and oral), organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to understand and translate scientific or technical information into written products for learned and lay audiences.

Strong work ethic and self-motivation, with the ability to manage multiple projects and work independently and as part of a team to meet project deadlines.

Ability to handle difficult and stressful situations with professional composure.

Ability to understand and follow various instructions and guidelines.

Candidates should submit a CV and three references, via e-mail to DSUIscience@miami.edu.

The Desai Sethi Urology Institute at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine is seeking to recruit outstanding scientists for faculty positions at the assistant through full professor levels.

For more details, please view the job posting here: Faculty - Open Rank