Postdoctoral Fellow: Cancer Genetics, Epigenetics and Biomarkers
Multiple Postdoctoral Fellow positions are available for immediate recruitment for a highly motivated candidate to join a team of researchers at the Baylor Research Institute and Charles A Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. The laboratory headed by Dr. Ajay Goel, PhD focuses on understanding the interplay between genetic, epigenetic and alterations in noncoding RNAs in gastrointestinal cancers. We are a multidisciplinary research group, undertaking a number of collaborative projects involving Baylor Research Institute and large international consortia.
Research Description:
This position involves studies surrounding work in the field of epigenetics and noncoding RNA research. More specifically, the projects will involve any/all of the following research focuses.
a) Exploration of the role of aberrant DNA methylation, histone modifications and non-coding RNAs (miRNA, lncRNAs, snoRNAs, piRNAs etc.) in colorectal, pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinoma.
b) Establishment of innovative methodologies for the development of epigenetic and non-coding RNAs-based biomarkers for the earlier diagnosis, prognosis and predictive responses to chemotherapy in gastrointestinal neoplasia.
c) A better understanding of the translational and clinical role of genetic and epigenetic signatures in gastrointestinal cancers.
d) Understanding the genetic basis of early-onset and familial colorectal cancers.
e) Chemoprevention of gastrointestinal cancers using dietary nutraceuticals, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and other drugs.
f) Molecular mechanisms of cancer chemotherapy, stem cells, chemoresistance and chemosensitization.
g) Gut microbiome, and its influence on gastrointestinal cancers.
Job Description:
An ideal candidate should have a strong background in molecular biology, and relevant experience in cancer genetics and epigenetics. The candidates with prior hands-on experience in NGS-based platforms (Ion Torrent PGM sequencer, MiSeq/HiSeq, RRBS, ChIP-Seq, MeDip and RNASeq etc.), and other array-based platforms will be given preference. Knowledge and experience with various bioinformatics and biostatistical analysis tools will be highly preferred.
Under general supervision of the Director of the Center, the Post-Doctoral Fellow will continue to expand upon his/her previous research project. The Post-Doc will present seminars on his/her work-in progress and make informative presentations on scientific articles at Journal Club. The position will continue to focus on developing the skills necessary to obtain grants and scientific publications and become an independent Investigator.
Job Functions:
* Performs experiments designed to test the hypothesis of the proposed research project.
* Records the design and data obtained from the experiments in a Laboratory notebook according to the guidelines established by Baylor Research Institute (BRI) and Center for Gastrointestinal Cancer Research.
* Successfully completes all training courses that are required for the performance of his/her work (e.g. Radiation Safety, Animal Handling, etc.).
* Learns to safely and properly operate all equipment and acquire all skills that are needed for the performance of his/her work.
* Reads all assigned literature and makes informative presentations at Journal Clubs as scheduled.
* Presents seminars on his/her research project and attends seminars given by others as scheduled. Attends and participates in weekly Lab meetings and other venues for sharing and discussing ideas and results of the ongoing research projects.
* Ultimately achieves a body of work that is worthy of publication in a high-quality scientific journal. Is responsible for writing the manuscript(s) that are submitted for publication and writing abstracts, designing posters, and/or making oral presentations at scientific meetings and conferences.
Minimum Requirements: The candidate should possess the following criteria: 1) PhD, MD/PhD 2) Evidence of first author peer-reviewed publications, 3) Prior molecular and/or cancer biology experience and evidence of project development, 4) Excellent communication and writing skills. Prospective candidates should be highly motivated, enthusiastic about science, with an ability to think creatively and independently. Candidate should demonstrate a strong track record of publication, have good organizational, written, and oral communication skills, and be able to work independently and in a team environment.
To Apply: The position is available initially for 2-3 years, with potential for extension. Salary is commensurate with experience. Interested candidates should submit a CV and cover letter summarizing your Qualifications, Research Interests and Career Goals, and describe your specific interest in our lab. Include the names and contact information of 3 references and send via email to:
Ajay Goel, Ph.D.
Investigator
Director, Center for Gastrointestinal Cancer Research
Director, Center for Epigenetics, Cancer Prevention and Cancer Genomics
Baylor Research Institute and Charles A Sammons Cancer Center
Baylor University Medical Center
3500 Gaston Avenue, Suite H-250
Dallas, TX 75246
E-mail: ajay.goel@baylorhealth.edu
Website: http://www.baylorhealth.edu/GiResearch
Posted by Ajay Goel, Ph.D.（AjayG@BaylorHealth.edu）