Postdoc / Research Scientist

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Hershey (PA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Hershey, PA seeks a Postdoc / Research Scientist to study mitochondrial metabolism in cancer metastasis. The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. and have expertise in biochemistry or molecular biology. Responsibilities include conducting research, utilizing organoid models, and collaborating on data analysis. This position offers training opportunities and is part of a supportive research environment.

Benefits

Training in cancer models

Opportunities for mentorship

Family-friendly location

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent in biochemistry, molecular biology, or related fields.
• Expertise in cancer metabolism is essential.
• Experiences with mouse models and sequencing analysis are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on mitochondrial metabolism in cancer.
• Utilize biochemistry and cell biology to study metastasis.
• Collaborate on data analysis and contribute to publications.

Skills

Biochemistry

Molecular Biology

Cancer Metabolism

Genetically Engineered Mouse Models

Next Generation Sequencing Data Analysis

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent degree

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Postdoc / Research Scientist

Location: Hershey, US

A NIH-funded post-doctoral / research scientist position is available in Dr. Shengyu Yang’s lab at the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine to study the role of mitochondrial metabolism and metabolic stress signaling in cancer metastasis. Our goal is to reveal how mitochondrial metabolism and nutrient stress controls metastatic progression through epigenetic remodeling. This project builds on discoveries that actin cytoskeleton remodeling in metastatic cancer cells can control mitochondrial metabolism by regulating mtDNA homeostasis and mitochondrial respiratory chain biogenesis. Biochemistry, cell biology, genetically engineered mouse models and patient-derived organoids/xenografts will be employed in the study.

Key publications (examples): Li et al, 2024 bioRxiv; Wang et al, 2022, Cancer Res; Lin et al, 2019, Cell Reports; Lin et al, 2019, EMBO Mol Med.

Qualifications and expertise: Successful applicant will have a Ph.D. or equivalent degree and expertise in biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer metabolism or related fields. Experience with genetically engineered mouse models and Next Generation Sequencing data analysis is desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on mitochondrial metabolism and metabolic stress signaling in cancer metastasis.
• Apply biochemistry, cell biology, and organoid/xenograft models to study metastatic progression.
• Collaborate on data analysis and interpretation; contribute to publications and presentations.

Training and Development

• Training in orthotopic lung cancer and/or pancreatic cancer metastasis models, 3D organoid culture, and genetically-engineered cancer mouse models.
• Opportunities to improve grant writing, manuscript writing, teaching, mentoring and presentation skills.

Laboratory and Institution

The research in Dr. Yang’s lab is funded by grants from the National Cancer Institute, National Institute on Aging and Department of Defense. Penn State College of Medicine is located in Hershey, PA. Hershey is a family-friendly town with affordable living expenses and easy access to major metropolitan areas (e.g., Philadelphia, Washington DC, New York City).

Equal Opportunity Employer

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to employment opportunities for all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Women and underrepresented minorities are especially encouraged to apply.

Application

Please send cover letter, CV and contact information for three references to Dr. Shengyu Yang at [Please click the Apply button for the link or email]

Application Deadline: 2025-12-31