Postdoc in Cancer Immunology

University of Pennsylvania; Meadville (PA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania is seeking a dedicated postdoctoral fellow to join an NIH-funded research program studying bitter taste receptor signaling in oral squamous cell carcinoma. The role involves leading projects on macrophage function and designing studies with primary human cells and murine models. Applicants should have a PhD or MD in a relevant field and possess strong communication skills. The position follows NIH postdoctoral salary guidelines and promotes professional development through publishing and grant writing.

Qualifications

• PhD or MD in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline such as immunology or cancer biology.
• Prior experience with cell culture or imaging is helpful but not required.
• Individuals from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects on bitter taste receptor signaling's effect on macrophage function.
• Design studies using primary human monocyte-derived macrophages and murine models.
• Integrate signaling studies with translational immune-oncology questions.
• Work collaboratively with the PI, Dr. Ryan Carey.
• Develop independent research directions and publish first-author manuscripts.

Skills

Cell culture

Imaging

Signaling pathways

Strong communication skills

Intellectual curiosity

Independence

Collaborative work

Education

PhD or MD in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline

Job description

Position Overview

Funding is available for a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join an NIH R01–funded research program investigating bitter taste receptor (T2R) signaling in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs). This work focuses on understanding how G protein–coupled receptor signaling shapes macrophage behavior within the tumor microenvironment and how these pathways can be leveraged to promote anti‑tumor immunity.

Research Focus

Oral squamous cell carcinoma remains a highly lethal disease, with clinical outcomes strongly influenced by immune composition and macrophage phenotype within the tumor microenvironment. Tumor‐associated macrophages play a central role in regulating tumor progression, immune suppression, and response to therapy, yet many of the signaling pathways governing macrophage‑tumor interactions remain poorly understood. Our laboratory has identified bitter taste receptors as previously unrecognized immune signaling receptors expressed on macrophages and oral cancer cells, where their activation influences phagocytosis, inflammatory signaling, and tumor cell survival. These findings point to taste receptor pathways as novel, targetable mechanisms for modulating anti‑cancer immunity.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects examining how bitter taste receptor signaling regulates macrophage function, including efferocytosis, polarization, and interactions with oral cancer cells.
• Design and perform studies using primary human monocyte‑derived macrophages from healthy donors and patients with OSCC, patient‑derived tumor slice cultures that preserve the native tumor microenvironment, and murine models to evaluate immune infiltration and tumor growth in vivo.
• Integrate mechanistic signaling studies with translational immune‑oncology questions.
• Work closely with the PI, Dr. Ryan Carey, in a collaborative research environment with strong ties to clinical oncology and institutional core facilities.
• Receive training in advanced live‑cell imaging and signaling assays as needed, and be encouraged to develop independent research directions, publish first‑author manuscripts, and pursue career‑development activities including grant writing, conference presentations, and interdisciplinary collaborations.

Qualifications

• PhD or MD in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline (e.g., immunology, cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, physiology).
• Prior experience with cell culture, immune cells, imaging, or signaling pathways is helpful but not required.
• Strong communication skills, intellectual curiosity, independence, and the ability to work collaboratively.
• Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, and those from socially, culturally, economically, or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Benefits

Salary and benefits will follow NIH postdoctoral guidelines. Information on postdoctoral policies and benefits is available through the Penn Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.