Postdoctoral Position in Cancer Metabolism and Molecular Imaging

Location: University of Pennsylvania – Perelman School of Medicine. Open date: October 21, 2026. A minimum two‑year commitment is expected (preferred four years); appointments are made for one‑year periods with annual reappointment. Visa sponsorship is available for qualified applicants contingent on funding eligibility.

About the role

Dr. David Tischfield, Assistant Professor of Radiology, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join his program within the Penn Image‑Guided Interventions Laboratory (directed by Dr. Terence Gade). The laboratory spans the Departments of Radiology and Cancer Biology and integrates expertise in cancer biology, chemistry, engineering, imaging, and clinical medicine. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Tischfield and collaborate with co‑principal investigators and team members on multidisciplinary projects investigating cancer metabolism and the tumor microenvironment to develop molecular imaging approaches and therapeutic strategies. The position emphasizes preclinical hyperpolarized carbon‑13 MRI, PET, and mass spectrometry–based metabolomics, integrating imaging with mechanistic studies in cells and animal models of cancer. The researcher will initially contribute to ongoing studies and then take increasing ownership of projects leading to first‑author publications, designing experiments, interpreting results, preparing manuscripts, and helping shape new research directions.

Responsibilities

• Preclinical hyperpolarized MRI and PET studies of tumor metabolism and treatment response
• Metabolomics and stable isotope tracing experiments
• Mechanistic studies using mouse models, mammalian cell culture, and molecular and biochemical assays
• Integration of imaging, mass spectrometry, and biological data
• Maintenance of rigorous experimental records
• Communication of findings through manuscripts and scientific presentations

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by the start date
• Background in one or more of: cancer biology, biochemistry, chemistry, biomedical engineering, physics, or related disciplines

Skills

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Scientific initiative
• Strong analytical skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment

Preferred experience (expertise in every area is not expected):

• Preclinical imaging
• Hyperpolarized MRI, conventional MRI, or NMR spectroscopy
• Mass spectrometry–based metabolomics or stable isotope tracing
• Chemistry
• Mouse handling and animal experimentation
• Mammalian cell culture
• Molecular biology or biochemical methods

Willingness to work with animals and to develop complementary experimental skills is essential.