Ut Md Anderson

Description: The Gardner Lab is located within the Department of Thoracic Medical Oncology and the James P. Allison Institute, with a joint appointment in the Department of Genetics at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. We study mechanisms of cancer development and are currently focused on four inter-related aspects of lung cancer tumorigenesis: 1) how do distinct types of airway damage influence lineage specific barriers to oncogenic transformation, 2) what are the secretory features of distinct cells of origin of cancer and how might they influence the immune microenvironment within a given niche, 3) how do certain arms of the innate immune system respond to early events following transformation, and 4) why are lung cancers usually observed in older adults?

Using a combination of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), organoid or organotypic cultures, high-resolution imaging and single cell approaches, we aim to better understand how cancer occurs, what the earliest stages of progression “look like,” and how certain layers of the innate and adaptive immune system attempt to control cancer initiation, progression and recurrence. We emphasize mechanistic interrogation of complex cancer phenomena including lineage plasticity, therapeutic resistance and chromosomal instability. Towards these ends, we collaborate broadly with many groups throughout the United States who each bring their specific skills and training histories to unite in common goals to understand, detect and treat cancer with curative intent.

Qualifications: This full-time, on-site Postdoctoral Researcher role is based in Houston, Texas and supports cutting-edge cancer research aligned with MD Anderson’s mission to end cancer. Ideal candidates have recently earned a PhD and/or MD with a focus on cancer biology, physiology, immunology, proteomics, quantitative biology and/or pharmacology with less than 2yrs of post-doctoral experience at the time of application. Important points of emphasis are placed on evidence for a team mentality when engaging in collaborative efforts, a self-driven, independent thinker, and the desire to advance one’s career in biomedical research by working on hard problems.

Expectations:

·     A collaborative, high-energy environment at a top cancer center and thoracic oncology group

·     Access to cutting-edge technologies, model systems and datasets

·     Close mentorship from a junior faculty member invested in training the next generation of cancer biologists and feedback from a large network of senior mentorship

·     Opportunities for first-author publications, grant development, and career advancement

·     Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits

·     Critically, all duties and responsibilities are carried out in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

·     Excellent communication skills and record keeping

·     Experience with genetically engineered mouse models is preferred, but not required

·     Fluency in modern techniques used in the fields of molecular biology, flow cytometry, mammalian tissue/organoid culture, microscopy/imaging, data analysis and visualization

·     Enthusiasm to learn new skills and techniques, and then teach others with similar enthusiasm

·     Dedication to keeping up with the literature in a given field of expertise or focus

·     A prior publication record with an interest in furthering one’s impact and breadth of work

Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including a cover letter, CV or NIH Biosketch, and 3 letters of reference with contact information to EEGardner@mdanderson.org