Postdoctoral Fellow - Thoracic Head & Neck Medical Oncology

Overview

Postdoctoral positions are available to study molecular mechanisms associated with therapeutic response and resistance to RAS inhibition in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in the laboratory of Ferdinandos Skoulidis, MD, PhD, at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX. The lab focuses on the molecular diversity of KRAS-mutant NSCLC and developing rational and tailored treatment strategies for patients bearing KRAS-mutant lung tumors.

We utilize preclinical studies in immunocompetent syngeneic and genetically engineered co-mutational models of KRAS-mutant NSCLC, as well as PDX/CDXs, in vitro models, and large collections of well-annotated clinical specimens. State-of-the-art computational biology/bioinformatics approaches are employed to dissect acute and adaptive responses to RAS inhibition in vitro and in vivo. Applicants with experience in any of these areas and a true passion for cutting-edge bench-to-bedside research are encouraged to apply and provide three professional references.

Learning objectives:

Trainees will perform basic and translational research involving molecular biology approaches (such as CRISPR/Cas technology, Western blotting, ELISA, immunohistochemistry), in vitro assays (such as drug screening, flow cytometry, development of resistant cell lines) and in vivo experiments using xenograft, syngeneic and genetically engineered mouse models of KRAS-mutant lung cancer. Candidates with prior experience in computational biology will acquire additional skills and be involved in the analysis of single-cell RNA Sequencing, WES, and in situ transcriptomics data.

Trainees will present their findings at regular lab meetings, departmental seminars, and national conferences. Trainees will submit their findings for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. All duties and responsibilities are carried out in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

• PhD and/or MD; qualified individuals with interest in translational research in a lab setting.
• The ideal candidate should have less than 2 years of prior postdoctoral experience and a background in cancer or cell and molecular biology.
• Experience in RAS signaling and targeting, and studies involving mouse models of KRAS-driven cancers, is preferred.
• Prior expertise in computational biology and bioinformatics, including analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data and in situ transcriptomics, is desirable.
• Innovative thinker with motivation to pursue an independent career in biomedical research.

• Enthusiastic, highly self-motivated candidate with the ability to think and function independently
• Strong background in cancer biology or cell and molecular biology; prior experience in RAS signaling and/or targeting preferred
• Expertise in computational biology/bioinformatics (Python/R) desirable but not essential
• Prior experience with mouse studies, including xenograft/syngeneic models and genetically engineered mice, is preferred
• Dedication to basic research and a collaborative team player
• Strong written and spoken English
• Prior publication record with at least one first-author manuscript is advantageous

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MD Anderson offers full-time postdoc positions with a salary ranging from $64,000 to $76,000 depending on the number of years of postgraduate experience. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and recognition. Offsite work arrangements are subject to approval and may be modified or revoked at any time based on business needs, performance considerations, or regulatory requirements.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, and may require routine reviews and screening as defined by applicable policy. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is an equal opportunity employer. EEO statement:
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center provides equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by law.

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