Post Doctoral Research Fellow - Department of Medical Oncology

The Department of Medical Oncology at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Post Doctoral Research Fellow with the WVU Cancer Institute - Hematopoietic Malignancies Program

About the Opportunity

West Virginia University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join a dynamic and interdisciplinary research team within the WVU Cancer Institute's Hematopoietic Malignancies Program. The lab investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms governing the bone marrow microenvironment, with a particular focus on mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes and their role in hematologic malignancies.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge cancer biology research using a combination of molecular biology, synthetic biology, and single-cell technologies. The successful candidate will work in a collaborative environment that bridges basic science with translational applications, including therapeutic development and biomarker discovery.

Research Focus
The lab integrates diverse methodologies to explore:
- The functional role of bone marrow stromal cells in leukemia progression
- Exosome-mediated intercellular communication
- Genetic and epigenetic regulation of hematopoietic stem cells
- Novel therapeutic strategies using synthetic biology and CRISPR-based tools

We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
* 37.5-hour work week
* 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
* 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave)
* 18 sick days per year (for when you're ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family's, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
* WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
* 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ's.
* Wellness programs

What You'll Do
- Design and execute experiments involving molecular cloning, western blotting, and mammalian cell culture
- Apply CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to model disease-relevant mutations
- Perform and analyze single-cell RNA sequencing and other high-throughput assays
- Develop and utilize synthetic biology platforms for functional screening
- Contribute to the development and characterization of murine models of leukemia
- Present findings at national/international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals
- Mentor junior lab members and collaborate across disciplines

- PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, stem cell biology, synthetic biology, bioengineering, or a related field
- Minimum of two (2) years of relevant research experience
- All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Demonstrated productivity through a strong publication record
- Proficiency in core molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture
- Interest in translational research and therapeutic innovation

Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with single-cell sequencing platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics)
- Familiarity with in vivo models of hematologic malignancies
- Background in extracellular vesicle biology or stromal cell signaling

Interested candidates should submit:
- A brief cover letter outlining research interests and career goals
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact information for two academic/professional references

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.