Research Investigator - Associate Research Scientist

University of Michigan Medical School

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist to join a research laboratory investigating the mechanisms that regulate prostate cancer metastasis to bone and the tumor-bone microenvironment. Our research focuses on understanding how interactions among prostate cancer cells, osteoblasts, other cells of the bone microenvironment, and the immune system promote the establishment and progression of skeletal metastases.

A major focus of the laboratory is defining how prostate cancer cells alter osteoblast function and how these changes influence the developing metastatic niche. Current studies investigate signaling pathways involved in osteoblast activation, inflammatory and chemokine signaling, recruitment and function of myeloid cells and neutrophils, and the development of an immunosuppressive bone microenvironment that supports metastatic tumor growth.

The laboratory employs complementary in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo approaches, including prostate cancer cell models, genetically modified mice, experimental models of bone metastasis, tissue-engineered bone models, molecular and cellular biology, histology and imaging, and single-cell and spatial transcriptomic approaches. Although prostate cancer is the primary focus of the laboratory, the broader goal is to identify mechanisms governing cancer metastasis to bone that may be relevant to breast cancer and other malignancies with a propensity for skeletal metastasis.

Candidates with prior experience in bone biology or prostate cancer biology are particularly encouraged to apply. Previous experience with bone metastasis research is desirable but not required.

The candidate will be expected to contribute intellectually to the development and direction of the laboratory's research program. The successful candidate will work closely with the Principal Investigator to develop hypotheses, design experiments, interpret findings, and identify new scientific directions.

The candidate will also interact with collaborators with expertise in cancer biology, bone biology, immunology, pathology, genomics, bioinformatics, and related disciplines.

Candidates should have:

• A PhD, MD, MD/PhD, or equivalent doctoral degree in cancer biology, bone biology, molecular or cellular biology, immunology, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
• Postdoctoral or equivalent research experience appropriate for appointment as an Assistant/Associate Research Scientist.
• Demonstrated experience designing and conducting hypothesis-driven biomedical research.
• Experience with relevant cellular, molecular, animal, imaging, or genomic experimental approaches.
• A record of scientific productivity demonstrated by peer-reviewed publications.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and scientific communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while functioning effectively within a collaborative research environment.

Previous experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred:

Prior experience specifically studying prostate cancer bone metastasis is advantageous but not required. Candidates with a strong background in either prostate cancer or bone biology who are interested in expanding their research into tumor-bone interactions and skeletal metastasis are particularly encouraged to apply.

The University of Michigan values diversity and is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Michigan Medicine requires background screening and pre-employment drug testing following a contingent offer. Tenure-track appointments require an institutional reference check regarding misconduct, as well as completion of self-disclosure and authorization forms.