Postdoctoral Fellow – RNA Biology and Cancer; miRNA Biogenesis

Job Title: Postdoctoral Fellow – RNA Biology and Cancer (miRNA Biogenesis)

Job Number: 127204

Location: FREDERICK, US

Job Description

We are seeking highly motivated candidates for a fully funded postdoctoral fellow position in the Gu Laboratory at the National Cancer Institute (NCI/CCR/NIH) in Frederick, MD. Our research focuses on miRNA biogenesis and its regulation in cancer. We use a genetics-driven approach to understand how recurrent mutations in core miRNA processing factors reprogram gene regulation and drive tumorigenesis. By leveraging disease-associated mutations as precise perturbations, we aim not only to uncover new therapeutic opportunities, but also to reveal fundamental principles governing RNA processing and regulation.

Using this approach, we recently discovered that cancer-associated mutations in DICER1 do not simply cause loss of function, but instead rewire miRNA output, simultaneously impairing 5p-miRNAs while inducing a gain of function of specific 3p miRNAs through altered Argonaute strand selection. This finding establishes a new conceptual framework for how mutations in RNA processing factors can reshape gene regulatory networks.

Current efforts in the lab are centered on systematically defining the functional landscape of disease-associated variants in miRNA biogenesis genes. To achieve this, we are developing and applying a prime editing–based near-saturation mutagenesis platform that enables the introduction and functional profiling of thousands of variants at endogenous loci. This approach allows us to directly link genotype to molecular phenotype at scale, providing unprecedented resolution to dissect how individual mutations affect miRNA processing, strand selection, and downstream gene regulation.

By integrating functional genomics with biochemical and mechanistic studies, we aim to identify key regulatory principles and uncover actionable miRNA-mediated vulnerabilities in cancer. Projects in the lab are designed with clear paths toward high-impact publications.

We offer a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment with access to state-of-the-art genomics, genome editing, and computational resources. Fellows benefit from the NIH Intramural Research Program, including competitive stipends, comprehensive federal health benefits for fellows and their dependents, and strong support for career development and scientific independence. Fellowships are supported by stable intramural funding and are typically renewable for up to five years.

International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply, and J-1 visa sponsorship is available; both U.S. citizens and non-U.S. citizens are equally eligible.

Qualifications: Ph.D. in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related field. A strong background in RNA biology, functional genomics, or cancer biology is preferred. Experience with genome editing, sequencing-based assays, or computational analysis is a plus.

Interested candidates should send a letter of interest, CV, and contact information for two references directly to Shuo Gu.

Final date to receive applications: