Research Scientist - Oral & Craniofacial Molecular Biology - School of Dentistry

The Philips Institute for Oral Health Research in the Department of Oral & Craniofacial Molecular Biology (OCMB) at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Dentistry is seeking a full-time Research Scientist to join the Laboratory of Oral & Craniofacial Innovation (LOCI). The role focuses on advancing NIH-, industry-, and foundation-funded translational research.

About the role

The Research Scientist will integrate single-cell and spatial multiomics, multiplex and deep visual proteomics, and precision-cut tumor and mucosal explant systems to create high-resolution maps of tissue microenvironments. A key responsibility is applying advanced computational and AI approaches, including machine learning and generative modeling, to build virtual tissue models, identify therapeutic targets, and test predictions in translational tissue systems. Working with interdisciplinary teams across molecular biology, computational systems biology, and clinical oncology, the Research Scientist will translate spatial multiomic insights into precision diagnostics and next-generation therapies.

Responsibilities

• Advance translational research to define the spatial and molecular architecture of cancer, chronic inflammatory diseases, and host–microbiome interactions.
• Integrate single-cell and spatial multiomics, multiplex and deep visual proteomics, and precision-cut tumor and mucosal explant systems.
• Apply advanced computational and AI approaches, including machine learning and generative modeling, to build virtual tissue models and identify therapeutic targets.
• Test predictions in translational tissue systems.
• Work with interdisciplinary teams across molecular biology, computational systems biology, and clinical oncology.
• Translate spatial multiomic insights into precision diagnostics and next-generation therapies.
• Perform animal procedures in compliance with institutional and ethical guidelines.
• Mentor trainees or junior personnel.
• Foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, cell biology, cancer biology, immunology, bioengineering, computational biology, or a related field.
• Minimum one (1) year of postdoctoral research experience.
• Strong expertise in molecular and cellular biology techniques.
• Experience with single-cell RNA sequencing and/or spatial multiomics, including experimental design and data interpretation.
• Experience analyzing high-dimensional biological datasets (e.g., transcriptomic, proteomic, multimodal) and familiarity with relevant computational workflows.
• Willingness to perform animal procedures in compliance with institutional and ethical guidelines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a record of peer-reviewed publications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in cancer biology, immune-oncology, tumor microenvironment research, or chronic inflammatory disease modeling.
• Experience with translational tissue platforms (e.g., tumor explants, organoids, precision-cut tissue slices).
• Advanced computational expertise in bioinformatics, spatial and multimodal omics integration, including proficiency in R and/or Python.
• Experience applying machine learning, network analysis, or multicellular interaction modeling to biological datasets.
• Experience integrating transcriptomic, proteomic, and imaging-based spatial data.
• Experience designing and interpreting drug perturbation or target validation studies, ideally within pharmaceutical collaborations or drug discovery pipelines.
• Experience with syngeneic mouse models, lineage tracing, or genetic manipulation (e.g., CRISPR-based systems).
• Demonstrated ability to lead collaborative research projects and contribute to grant submissions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits.
• Paid annual and holiday leave.
• Generous tuition benefits.
• Retirement planning and savings options, including tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs.
• Employee discounts.
• Well-being resources.
• Abundant opportunities for career development and advancement.