Postdoctoral Associate- Curing Brain Tumors – Houston, Texas (US)

Our brain tumor research laboratory is currently seeking outstanding young scientists to join our group as Postdoctoral Research Fellows. Successful candidates will be recent PhD graduates with high levels of energy and curiosity, and who are interested in making fundamental discoveries in understanding the molecular biology of brain tumours, and in pursuing eventual independent careers in academic research.

Research approaches in our group include genomics, cell biology, functional genomics, mouse modeling, developmental biology, stem cell biology, and translational ‘mouse-hospital’ approaches. Projects in the laboratory are all focused on malignancies of the central nervous system, and many have a direct connection to the clinic or to patient tumours. In particular, we are very interested in understanding recurrent and metastatic cancer, as this is the patient population in which most clinical trials are undertaken. Understanding the molecular basis of metastasis and recurrence after standard therapy could result in rapid clinical translation of novel therapies.

Job Duties

• Conducts functional studies of pediatric brain tumors, both in vitro and in vivo, using and generating mouse models, manipulation of mouse ES cells, study of human brain cancer xenografts, and use of human iPS cells.
• Conducts studies of gene function during normal mammalian brain development, and how abnormalities in normal brain development lead to the development of brain cancers.
• Conducts analysis and interpretation of data (whole-genome, whole-exome, ChIP-seq and RNAseq) in light of tumour evolution, with the aim of understanding the underlying dynamics of tumour growth, relapse, metastases and progression.

Minimum Qualifications

• MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
• No experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD or MD with previous training in biochemistry or cell biology and possess exceptional computational skills. The most advanced degree must have been conferred within the last 3 years.
• Prior experience with brain development, and/or cancer cell biology would be an asset.
• Experience with large-scale genomic data would also be advantageous.
• Prior first author publications are highly desirable.
• Must be self-motivated, well-organized, highly independent, and willing to train new students.
• Excellent communication, written and interpersonal skills are mandatory.
• A detailed CV and the names and contact information for at least three references should accompany the application.
• Candidates with external funding or scholarships to help support their salary will be highly recruited.