Postdoctoral Fellowship - Precision Oncology and Translational Research in Gastrointestinal Cancers

Led by Dr. Ajay Goel, Professor and Founding Chair of the Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Experimental Therapeutics, our multidisciplinary research group comprises basic researchers, gastroenterologists, surgeons, oncologists, and bioinformaticians, undertaking several collaborative projects involving large international consortia. This position has the potential to become tenure‑track upon the receipt of grant funding lasting 3‑5 years from a federal agency.

Our research focuses on translational studies of the genomic and epigenomic characterization of various gastrointestinal cancers (GI), including colorectal, pancreatic, gastric, esophageal, and hepatocellular cancers. Our group performs cutting‑edge research in GI oncology, is very productive, and publishes in high‑impact journals such as Nature Cancer, Nature Communications, Nature Biotechnology, Nature Reviews Gastroenterology and Hepatology, New England Journal of Medicine, CA: A Journal for Clinicians, Gastroenterology, Cancer Cell, PNAS, JAMA Oncology, JNCI, Cancer Research, Clinical Cancer Research, Annals of Surgery, etc.

If you are interested, please send your CV directly to Dr. Goel at ajgoel.

• Development of cell‑free DNA (mutation and methylation), RNA, and exosomal‑based liquid assays for early cancer detection, prognosis, and predictive responses to chemo therapies and targeted drugs.
• Studying the genetic and epigenetic basis of GI cancers (e.g., aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non‑coding RNAs).
• Understanding the biological implications of gut microbiome and its translational application to gastrointestinal cancers.
• The genetic basis of early‑onset colorectal cancer (EO‑CRC) and familial/hereditary colorectal cancer.
• The role of extracellular vesicles/exosomes in cancer pathogenesis and their role as disease biomarkers.
• The role of the tumor microenvironment, stem cells, immune regulation, and identification of novel targeted therapies.
• Cancer prevention and adjunctive role of natural and integrative therapy approaches.

• Devise, plan, document, and advance basic science and translational projects in genetics, epigenetics, and precision oncology of gastrointestinal cancers.
• Generate data for grant applications and prepare manuscripts for publication.
• Work closely with other team members and external collaborators, including presenting progress internally or externally.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced team environment and handle multiple projects simultaneously.

• Ph.D., MD, or MD/Ph.D., with a strong background and profound knowledge in oncology, cancer biology, immunology, or immunotherapy.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced research environment and manage multiple projects and collaborations.
• Previous experience working with human specimens and developing novel, innovative cancer biomarkers.
• Evidence of scientific rigor and excellence as documented by high‑impact peer‑reviewed publications.
• Strong team player with excellent communication skills and fluency in spoken and written English.
• A strong track record of relevant original, peer‑reviewed publications as a first author.
• The individual must have effective skills in oral and written communication, teamwork, and problem‑solving and be adaptable to changes in technological and scientific directions.