Vanderbilt-Incyte Research Scholars Program

Now accepting applications for the Vanderbilt-Incyte Research Scholars Program (VIRSP)

The Vanderbilt-Incyte Research Scholars Program  is seeking postdoctoral candidates who desire to work in basic and translational cancer research. The position offered is focused on  studying cellular and non-cellular autonomous stromal contributions to hematopoiesis and bone marrow pathology. Chosen applicants will be studying primary patient samples passaged within cutting edge ex vivo organoid model systems. This unique position provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience in cancer biology, genomic methods, biomarker development, and novel therapeutics, while working within the alliance between Vanderbilt University Medical School and Incyte Pharmaceuticals. Fellows will have the opportunity to develop independent research careers working with top academic scientists, but will also spend two weeks per year with Incyte Corporation scientific leadership, providing unique insight into industry science. 

The Savona Laboratory:

The Savona lab (http://lab.vumc.org/savona-lab/) broadly studies hematopoiesis, vascular inflammation, leukemogenesis, and experimental therapies in myeloid disease (see Ramsey et al., Cancer Discovery, 2018; Fischer et al Blood Advances, 2020; Villaume et al Experimental Hematology, 2020). Understanding how to attack therapeutic liabilities in myeloid malignancies requires a composite investigation of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in the bone marrow.  We study the genesis of marrow disease in our investigations of clonal hematopoiesis, the marrow niche with human hematopoietic cells in ex vivo organoid model systems, and the effects of therapy and behavior of disease in correlative assays from clinical trials.  Discovering biomarkers of response to therapy, and novel model development is central to our ethos.  The translational tenor with the laboratory emanates from the hopes of advancing discoveries quickly to the clinic.  Our mission is to develop the best therapy as quickly as possible for the appropriate patients.  This mission drives our inquiry into fundamental questions of myeloid biology and the interaction between hematopoietic cells and their environs, our search for meaningful biomarkers of response, and our decisions to develop new therapy in areas of considerable need.

Applications are encouraged from candidates with research experience in animal models, biochemistry and molecular biology, as well as a willingness to learn to new techniques.   The candidate will be expected to contribute to the preparation of manuscripts and reports, and to regularly present their findings at Vanderbilt-Incyte Alliance meetings, lab meetings, and national/international symposia.  Candidates must have a strong record of productivity, and excellent communication skills.

 To apply, please complete the application survey at the Vanderbilt-Incyte Research Scholars VUMC Application Link and submit a cover letter, CV including bibliography, unofficial graduate school transcript, and contact information for three references. Only applications submitted through this website will be considered. Any questions about the position or application process can be directed to Paul Spilburg at Paul.Spilburg@vumc.org.

Eligibility:

Must have received or expect to have received the PhD or MD/PhD in 2019-2021 and must be a US Citizen or Permanent Resident.  Vanderbilt University Medical Center is an equal opportunity employer. The candidate must be eligible to work in the United States.