Postdoc in Cancer Immunology

About the role

Funding is available for a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join an NIH R01–funded research program investigating bitter taste receptor (T2R) signaling in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). The work focuses on understanding how G protein–coupled receptor signaling shapes macrophage behavior within the tumor microenvironment and how these pathways can be leveraged to promote anti-tumor immunity.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects examining how bitter taste receptor signaling regulates macrophage function, including efferocytosis, polarization, and interactions with oral cancer cells.
• Conduct studies using primary human monocyte-derived macrophages from healthy donors and patients with OSCC.
• Utilize patient-derived tumor slice cultures that preserve the native tumor microenvironment.
• Employ murine models to evaluate immune infiltration and tumor growth in vivo.
• Integrate mechanistic signaling studies with translational immune-oncology questions using live-cell and confocal imaging, biochemical and molecular techniques, primary human tissues, and in vivo models.
• Work closely with PI Dr. Ryan Carey in a collaborative research environment with ties to clinical oncology and institutional core facilities.
• Receive training in advanced live-cell imaging and signaling assays as needed.
• Develop independent research directions, publish first-author manuscripts, and pursue career development activities including grant writing, conference presentations, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Qualifications

• Hold a PhD or MD in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline (e.g., immunology, cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, physiology).
• Prior experience with cell culture, immune cells, imaging, or signaling pathways is helpful but not required.
• Strong communication skills, intellectual curiosity, independence, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential.
• Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, and those from socially, culturally, economically, or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Benefits

Salary and benefits will follow NIH postdoctoral guidelines. Information on postdoctoral policies and benefits is available through the Penn Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs.