Postdoctoral Fellow - Genetics

Overview

The Trakala Lab at MD Anderson Cancer Center seeks a motivated postdoctoral fellow to study the biology of chromosomal instability (CIN) and aneuploidy in cancer, with an emphasis on immune surveillance and tumor evolution in vivo. The postdoctoral fellow will lead independent research projects using genetically engineered mouse models, organoids/tumoroids, advanced imaging, and single-cell and spatial omics approaches. Key responsibilities include experimental design and execution, data analysis and interpretation, manuscript preparation, and presentation of findings at scientific meetings.

The position offers a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment with strong mentorship and opportunities for career development. All duties and responsibilities are carried out in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

Lead independent research projects studying CIN and aneuploidy in cancer using in vivo and ex vivo model systems.

• Design and execute experiments with genetically engineered mouse models, organoids/tumoroids, and advanced imaging.
• Perform single-cell and spatial omics analyses; analyze and interpret data.
• Prepare manuscripts and present findings at scientific meetings.
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team and contribute to a constructive mentorship environment.

The postdoctoral fellow will develop advanced expertise in studying chromosomal instability and aneuploidy in cancer using in vivo and ex vivo model systems. Training goals include gaining proficiency in experimental design and execution with genetically engineered mouse models, organoids/tumoroids, advanced microscopy, and single-cell and spatial omics technologies, as well as rigorous data analysis and interpretation. The fellow will acquire skills in hypothesis-driven research, statistical analysis, scientific writing, and manuscript preparation, and will gain experience presenting research at national and international meetings.

Additional outcomes include developing independence in project leadership, grant and fellowship writing, collaborative research, and mentoring of junior trainees, preparing the fellow for a successful career in academia, industry, or related scientific fields.

PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., biology, biomedical sciences, engineering, computational sciences, or related fields) by the start date. Demonstrated research experience through doctoral training, with the ability to design and execute experiments and analyze and interpret data. Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research environment.

• Candidates with training in cell biology, cancer biology, immunology, computational biology, bioengineering, or related fields are encouraged to apply; experience with mouse models and/or single-cell technologies is preferred.

Trakala Lab: MD Anderson Laboratory information is available internally. Position information includes salary and benefits; specific figures are provided during the application process. 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.

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 benefits including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and recognition programs. This position may involve responsibilities for maintaining security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined by applicable regulations;

the ability to satisfy and maintain requirements to ensure the continued security is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide 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 institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law.