Postdoctoral Scholar

Job Summary

Bladder cancer remains a pressing public health concern, necessitating innovative research to address its complexities and challenges. We seek candidates with a creative approach to research, particularly those with wet lab competencies, and encourage applicants with both wet and dry lab skills.

Research Focus

Our research centers on the role of epigenetic regulation in bladder cancer initiation, focusing on both normal homeostasis and responses to environmental and endogenous factors. Recent studies indicate that carcinogenesis involves significant epigenetic alterations, with exposure to chemicals and irritants contributing to bladder cancer through epigenetic reprogramming. We aim to identify common epigenetic pathways across different cellular contexts and pinpoint actionable targets for therapeutic intervention.

In parallel, we advance our understanding of bladder tumor evolution biology through the analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data and the tumor microenvironment. Our goal is to track the intricate epigenetic and genetic evolutionary trajectories of bladder tumors across various stages and environments, identifying key drivers of cancer progression, immune resistance mechanisms, and potential vulnerabilities within the tumor microenvironment.

What We Offer

• An open, supportive, and motivating academic environment with excellent training opportunities.
• The possibility to work on cutting-edge and novel translational research projects.
• A broad spectrum of methods, including bioinformatics, biochemistry, cell culture, next generation sequencing, and animal models.
• Investment in career development, fostering critical research skills, scientific writing, and editing.
• A two-year fellowship with the possibility of extension.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcome applicants from underrepresented groups.

Specific Responsibilities

• Study execution and data analysis.
• Manuscript preparation and presentations at national meetings.
• Communicating data and conclusions effectively in both written and oral forms.
• Supporting the research team by performing other related duties as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. in cancer, developmental biology, stem cells, immunology, genomics, with a record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Knowledge and interest in cancer biology, immunology, and mouse models.
• Technical qualifications: mouse breeding and histology, immunology, epigenetic assays, cell culture.
• Bioinformatics skills: use of R (or python) to analyze gene expression, single-cell and mutation analysis.

Minimum Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with particular emphasis on data visualization.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with a track record of writing papers in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific meetings.
• Ability to work independently, but also contribute to a research team.

Benefits

Northwestern provides meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts, and more. Visit this link for more information.

Work-Life and Wellness

We offer comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. Visit this link for more information.

Professional Growth & Development

We support employee career development in all circumstances, whether your workspace is on campus or at home. Visit this link for more information.

Pay and Schedule

The target hiring range for this position is between $61,008-$68,964 per year. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant’s education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and market data.