Postdoctoral Appointee in Dr. Jaeyeon Kim Lab

We are seeking candidates for a postdoctoral position in the laboratory of Dr. Jaeyeon Kim, an Assistant Professor, in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Melvin & Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center at Indiana University School of Medicine.

Dr. Kim studies the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of ovarian and breast cancer with genetically engineered mouse models, particularly high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) (PLoS Genetics, 2020: 16:e1008808)—the most common, deadliest human ovarian cancer―and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Though originated in disparate tissues, HGSC and TNBC are genomically similar, suggesting a similar mechanism of development. His lab has recently demonstrated that the ovarian hormone progesterone is a crucial endogenous factor inducing metastatic HGSC, and targeting progesterone signaling prevents metastatic HGSC (PNAS, 2020; PMID: 33262282). The genetic similarity between HGSC and TNBC has also led to a study, by creating genetically engineered mouse models of breast cancer, to determine whether progesterone signaling is also critical to TNBC development. Human studies are conceived to test whether targeting progesterone signaling can prevent ovarian and breast cancer in high-risk women, particularly BRCA1-mutation carriers. Moreover, his lab is actively investigating detailed molecular mechanisms underlying progesterone signaling in ovarian cancer development and metastases. Additionally, his lab also focuses on elucidating the role of microRNAs in the development of HGSC using mouse models of Dicer1 or Drosha.

Research experience with mice or mouse models―accompanied by molecular biology skills, including PCR, QPCR, western blot, cloning, cell culture, and flow cytometry―would be desirable, though not required. Candidates for the postdoctoral position should have, or are expected to receive, a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in biological or biomedical sciences. Also anticipated are motivation and commitment to research and science with the ability to work independently. 

In addition to the research skills and work ethic, what is equally important is community mindedness: that is, willingness to learn and also work collaboratively and harmoniously with other researchers and the principal investigator (PI) in the laboratory. The laboratory will offer a highly interactive, intellectually stimulating yet relaxed research and academic environment. Also, the PI will help promote the career development of researchers in the laboratory. As part of these efforts, besides research training, mentoring and training will also be offered in learning how to write and present their research and science effectively and competitively.

If you are interested in participating in this research program of ovarian and breast cancer, please send (in pdf) a cover letter (describing research experience), CV, and names of three references to Dr. Jaeyeon Kim at jaeyeonk@iu.edu and prko15@gmail.com.