Research Associate, Research Scientist

The Department of Radiation Oncology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania seeks candidates for a Research Associate position in the Academic Support Staff. This appointment will be initially for one (1) year and continuation during that time period and renewal are based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding (limited to three (3) years). Expertise is required in the specific area of Tumor biology, preferably in radiation biology/oncology is required.

Work with rodents is also required.

Experience with growing of tissue organoids, and performing complex immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence analyses on fixed/embedded tissue is strongly recommended. Experience inscRNAseq analysis is a plus. Applicants must have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree. Small animal training certification is required.

Responsibilities may include engagement in research investigating the role of Ultra-High-Dose Rate ("FLASH") radiotherapy in normal and tumor response in head and neck cancer models. Specifically, the role will be engaged in injecting HNSCC cells (both HPV+ and HPV-) in the oral cavity of syngeneic mice, and irradiating them with Proton FLASH or Standard radiation. The impact of these treatments on tumor growth as well as normal tissue toxicity (fibrosis, hypo salivation, atrophy of salivary glands etc) will be assayed.

Furthermore, normal tissue and tumor organoids will be developed from mouse models as well as patients with HNSCC-these organoids will be used to determine the impact of FLASH RT +/- DNA damage repair inhibitors on the therapeutic window. The successful candidate is also expected to perform analyses such as scRNAseq and bioinformatics and perform mechanistic studies pertaining to the role of Ferroptosis in normal and tumor tissue response to these treatments.

Finally, the RA will be expected to write first drafts of manuscripts and apply for funding form several Institutions and foundations, including the NIH, ACS and AACR.

The successful applicant will have an opportunity to be trained in cutitng edge research on FLASH and HNSCC biology, publish in high-impact journals and receive mentoring in career transition to independence through grant writing workshops, attending and presenting their research findings at national and international meetings.

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.