Post Doctoral Research Fellow - Department of Medical Oncology

Job Description - Post Doctoral Research Fellow - Department of Medical Oncology (28083)

The Department of Medical Oncology at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Post Doctoral Research Fellow with the WVU Cancer Institute - Hematopoietic Malignancies Program.

West Virginia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team within the WVU Cancer Institute’s Hematopoietic Malignancies Program. The lab investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing the bone marrow microenvironment, with a particular focus on mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes and their role in hematologic malignancies.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge cancer biology research using a combination of molecular biology, synthetic biology, and single‑cell technologies. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative environment that bridges basic science with translational applications, including therapeutic development and biomarker discovery.

• Functional role of bone marrow stromal cells in leukemia progression
• Exosome‑mediated intercellular communication
• Genetic and epigenetic regulation of hematopoietic stem cells
• Novel therapeutic strategies using synthetic biology and CRISPR‑based tools

• 37.5‑hour work week
• 13 paid holidays
• 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year
• 18 sick days per year
• Range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks
• Wellness programs

• Design and execute experiments involving molecular cloning, western blotting, and mammalian cell culture
• Apply CRISPR‑Cas9 gene editing to model disease‑relevant mutations
• Perform and analyze single‑cell RNA sequencing and other high‑throughput assays
• Develop and utilize synthetic biology platforms for functional screening
• Contribute to the development and characterization of murine models of leukemia
• Present findings at national/international conferences and publish in peer‑reviewed journals
• Mentor junior lab members and collaborate across disciplines

• PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, stem cell biology, synthetic biology, bioengineering, or a related field
• Minimum of two (2) years of relevant research experience
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment

• Demonstrated productivity through a strong publication record
• Proficiency in core molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture
• Interest in translational research and therapeutic innovation

• Experience with single‑cell sequencing platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics)
• Familiarity with in‑vivo models of hematologic malignancies
• Background in extracellular vesicle biology or stromal cell signaling

Interested candidates should submit:

• A brief cover letter outlining research interests and career goals
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Contact information for two academic/professional references

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career‑oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology‑intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work‑life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.