Postdoctoral Research Scholar (Chen Lab)

Postdoctoral Research Scholar in the laboratory of Songhai Chen, Ph.D., Md, at the University of Iowa, Department of Neuroscience & Pharmacology. Research in the Chen lab explores the function and regulation of heterotrimeric G proteins in leukocyte migration and tumor metastasis. The major focus of our research is to elucidate how G protein subunits orchestrate the formation of specific signaling complexes to promote directional cell migration. Particularly, we are interested in understanding how G functions are regulated by a group of novel interacting proteins, WD40 repeat-containing proteins, which we recently identified by a yeast two-hybrid screen. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, have strong analytical skills, and have an intense curiosity to answer significant and complex questions.

Education Requirement:

* Ph.D. in cancer biology, or a related field, or equivalent degree.

Required Qualifications:

* Practical experience and knowledge of fundamental concepts in cancer biology including mechanisms of tumor growth and metabolism, cancer stem cells and therapy resistance.

* Proficiency in basic cancer research methodologies, such as mammalian cell culture, virus propagation, cell viability and proliferation assays, molecular cloning, nucleic acid purification and analyses, protein techniques including extraction and measurement of levels / cellular signaling / interactions, drug response assays, cancer stem cell analysis, flow cytometry, and fluorescence microscopy and imaging. Specific training will be provided to expand on fundamental skills, as needed.

* Demonstrated excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

* Competence in relevant software applications (GraphPad Prism, ImageJ/Fiji, and FloJo)

* Experience mentoring peers and trainees.

* Ability to work autonomously, problem solve and effectively manage own time/workload to meet project goals with minimal oversight.

Desirable Qualifications

* Previous experience with rodents, including basic handling. Specific training in mouse tumor modeling will be provided.

* Experience and/or interest in studying cancer immunology.

Salary: Commensurate with NIH pay scale

Background check: Required