Post Doctoral Research Fellow - Department of Medical Oncology

About the Opportunity

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

• 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 days per year
• 18 sick days per year
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match
• 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 and 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

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

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.