Postdoctoral Fellow

We are looking for an energetic, highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join the research team of Dr. Alicja Copik at the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. The main focus of the laboratory is development of NK cell-based therapeutics for treatment of cancer and other diseases. We have developed a novel method for NK cell expansion to produce high doses of therapeutically potent NK cells that will be making clinical entry. To explore how to make this NK cell therapeutic even more effective, the FL DOH has sponsored a project that will examine the effects of activated NK cell on shaping of the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, the mechanisms behind the observed changes will be elucidated with the goal to develop novel approaches to counteract immunosuppression.  The findings will inform optimal immunotherapeutic combination strategies to maximize antitumor efficacy. As part of this project NK cells will be edited by novel tools being developed in the lab to remove major checkpoints. This project is highly translatable and has the potential to lead to development of novel therapeutics and/or treatment strategies.

This is an excellent opportunity to interact with a team focused on development of a cutting-edge cell therapy platform and to learn novel techniques including spectral flow cytometry, IncuCyte assays, 3D spheroid assays and more. Upon completion of the postdoctoral program, the Fellow will acquire valuable career experience that enables entry into biotech, healthcare-related opportunities or translational academic settings.

The Ideal Candidate:

Candidates should have demonstrated ability to work independently, be detail oriented, dedicated and self-motivated; demonstrated by a publication record. Collaborative team spirit, strong communication skills both written and oral, positive attitude and adherence to highest ethical principles are necessary to be considered. The ideal candidate will have some experience working with mammalian cell culture, multi-color flow cytometry, immune cell characterization and mouse models.

Responsibilities:

• NK cell culture and assays including multicolor immunophenotyping using spectral flow cytometry, cytotoxicity, cytokine production, immune cell recruitment and priming and new assay development including with the use of Incucyte.
• Perform studies utilizing 3D spheroids and animal models to understand changes of the tumor microenvironment upon adoptive NK cell treatment.
• Execute experiments independently and contribute to collaborative projects.
• Preparation of figures for presentations, grants and papers, manuscript preparations, writing reports etc. 
• Work with the team and participate in overall lab management.
• Present results at local and national meetings.

Credentials and Qualifications:

Successfully applicants will have Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in Immunology, Cellular/Molecular Biology, Physical Biology, Biochemistry or related fields with proven track record of productivity in form of publications. Hands-on-experience in laboratory research and good analytical and computer skills are required.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should apply and include a single PDF file of their current CV with publications list, and contact information for three references. A competitive salary will be offered to the successful candidate. For further inquiries, please email Alicja.Copik@ucf.edu.