DescriptionThe University of Washington (UW) Department of Radiation Oncology invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholar who will focus on research in cancer biology and FLASH/ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy (UHDR-RT). This position offers an exceptional opportunity for a motivated PhD or MD/PhD scientist to advance the biological and translational foundations of next-generation radiotherapy.
Fred Hutch and UW have a rich and pioneering legacy in radiation oncology and particle therapy research. UW Medicine was among the first institutions in the United States to establish a hospital-based proton therapy center and has contributed foundational work in proton and neutron therapy physics, clinical implementation, and radiobiology. These efforts, coupled with Fred Hutch's internationally recognized expertise in human biology, transplantation, and tumor immunology, have consistently placed Seattle at the forefront of precision radiation sciences. Building on this tradition, the program is now positioned to lead the next era of FLASH and ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy research, leveraging decades of excellence in both biological discovery and technological innovation.
Position OverviewThe successful applicant will join a multidisciplinary environment at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center and UW Medicine, working with expert faculty in radiation biology, cancer metabolism, DNA damage response, tumor microenvironment, and immuno-oncology. The postdoctoral scholar will pursue an independent yet mentored project with a specific emphasis on the mechanistic underpinnings of FLASH/ultra-high dose rate radiotherapy and its potential to improve therapeutic index in cancer care. Projects may span:
- Mechanistic laboratory research (e.g., tumor and normal tissue response, DNA repair, oxidative stress, metabolic rewiring, and immune modulation in FLASH/UHDR-RT).
- Preclinical model development (orthotopic murine systems, patient-derived xenografts, 3D organoids).
- Correlative studies linking preclinical discoveries to clinical trials in radiation oncology.
- Innovative imaging and biomarker development to track response to ultra-high dose rate therapy.
The postdoctoral scholar will have access to state-of-the-art irradiation platforms, including FLASH/UHDR-RT capabilities, advanced imaging, spatial transcriptomics, radiomics, and digital histology resources.
Postdoctoral scholars are represented by UAW 4121 and are subject to the collective bargaining agreement, unless agreed exclusion criteria apply. For more information, please visit the University of Washington Labor Relations website.
The initial appointment is one year (12 month), and the appointment is renewable depending upon performance and availability of funding. Anticipated start date is July 1, 2026 or earlier.
The base salary range for this position will be: $6,250 - $ 6,917 per month ($75,000 - $83,004 annually) commensurate with experience and qualifications, or as mandated by a U.S. Department of Labor prevailing wage determination.
Training EnvironmentThe program provides translational research training with full salary and laboratory support. The postdoctoral scholar will work under the guidance of a primary mentor within the Department of Radiation Oncology and will form collaborative mentoring teams across UW and Fred Hutch. Additional support may be available through the Institutional funding mechanisms and competitive external fellowships. The postdoctoral scholar is strongly encouraged to apply for independent funding during their training and will be given support and mentorship in this effort.
Institutional Resources- The position is primarily based at the Fred Hutch Campus with dedicated FLASH/ultra-high dose rate research infrastructure across both FHCC and UW's Radiation Biology Laboratory.
- Cyclotron for radiopharmaceutical and particle therapy research with GMP-grade therapeutic product development facilities.
- Extensive shared resources for genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, imaging, and computational biology.
- A rich scientific environment in cancer biology, human biology, and translational oncology.
Qualifications- PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in cancer biology, radiation biology, molecular biology, or related discipline (or foreign equivalent).
- Demonstrated research accomplishments in cancer biology and/or radiation biology, as evidenced by publications.
Application Instructions To apply, please submit via Interfolio:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of research interests (with emphasis on FLASH/UHDR-RT and cancer biology)
- Personal statement describing career goals and interest in the Radiation Oncology Postdoctoral Training Program
- Contact information for three references
Equal Employment Opportunity StatementEqual OpportunityThe University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.
Benefits InformationThe University is committed to providing excellent benefits to our faculty. For a summary of available benefits, please see UWHR benefits information.
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Disability ServicesThe University of Washington is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.
