Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Cancer Genetics

Overview

Cures Start Here. At Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, home to three Nobel laureates, interdisciplinary teams of world-renowned scientists seek new and innovative ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases. Fred Hutch’s pioneering work in bone marrow transplantation led to the development of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the immune system to treat cancer. An independent, nonprofit research institute based in Seattle, Fred Hutch houses the nation’s first cancer prevention research program, as well as the clinical coordinating center of the Women’s Health Initiative and the international headquarters of the HIV Vaccine Trials Network. Careers Start Here.

Responsibilities

A postdoctoral position is available in the MacPherson Lab at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. The project will focus on small cell lung cancer (SCLC), a neuroendocrine tumor type that exhibits initial sensitivity to chemotherapy but invariable emergence of chemoresistance. Our lab is interested in linking specific gene mutations in SCLC to therapeutic vulnerabilities and to chemoresistance. We have developed a panel of new genetically engineered murine models (e.g. see Jia et al, 2018 Cancer Discovery) and patient derived xenograft models that can be used in these efforts.  Many projects in the lab incorporate genome-wide functional screens in cells and in vivo.  These screens are used to identify functionally important genes for SCLC and genetic vulnerabilities that might lead to new avenues to therapeutically target SCLC.  One available project includes interrogating the importance of candidate SCLC driver genes and linking specific SCLC-mutated genes to novel therapeutic approaches. Hits identified through functional screens are followed by therapeutic studies that employ GEM and PDX model.  A second available project applies in vivo genome-wide screens to understand drivers of chemoresistance.

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated individual with a PhD or MD and interests in cancer genetics, epigenetics, murine models, functional screening and/or therapeutics. The candidate should be able to drive an individual project but also be highly collaborative.  A strong foundation in molecular and cell biology is essential. The candidate should be independent, enthusiastic and scientifically rigorous.

Please include a cover letter detailing your research interest and suitability for this position and names of at least two references with your application.

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We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which diverse perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and VEVRAA Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Affirmative Action employer. We encourage individuals with diverse backgrounds to apply and desire priority referrals of protected veterans. If due to a disability you need assistance/and or a reasonable accommodation during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to our Employee Services Center at escmail@fredhutch.org or by calling 206-667-4700.