Postdoctoral Fellow - Genetics

UT MD Anderson; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 64,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to study molecular mechanisms of lung cancer under the supervision of Dr. Vaishnavi.

The role combines molecular biology, biochemistry, cellular signaling, tissue culture, histology, and cancer genetics. The fellow will design and execute hypothesis-driven projects using genetically engineered mouse models, contribute to biomarker and therapeutic development, and present findings at national

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry or related field.
• Experience with in vivo mouse models of cancer.
• Ability to design and conduct hypothesis-driven research.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct research projects on lung cancer biology.
• Investigate environmental carcinogenesis and therapeutic responses.
• Utilize molecular biology, biochemistry, cellular signaling and histology.
• Present findings at national meetings and seminars.

Skills

Molecular biology

Genetics

Biochemistry / signal transduction

In vivo experiments

Mouse models

Imaging tools

Education

Ph.D. degree in a relevant field

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join the Department of Genetics at MD Anderson Cancer Center under the direct supervision of Dr. Vaishnavi. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular and biological mechanisms underlying lung cancer development, the relationship between environmental exposures and cancer, and strategies to improve therapeutic responses. The overarching goal of our research is to advance discoveries that enable earlier cancer detection, improve patient care, and support the development of novel cancer therapeutics.

The successful candidate will design and conduct research projects investigating lung cancer biology using a range of experimental approaches, including molecular biology, biochemistry, cellular signaling, tissue culture models, histology, cancer genetics, and genetically engineered mouse models. The postdoctoral fellow will contribute to cancer gene discovery, biomarker and therapeutic development, and investigations of lung biology and development. The position requires proficiency in experimental techniques relevant to molecular and cancer biology, as well as the ability to collaborate with colleagues across research projects. The laboratory provides consistent mentorship, access to research resources, and opportunities to present findings at national scientific meetings and participate in educational seminars.

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

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The postdoctoral fellow will develop expertise in designing and executing hypothesis-driven research to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying lung cancer development, environmental carcinogenesis, and therapeutic response. Training will emphasize experimental approaches in cancer biology, including molecular biology, biochemistry, cellular signaling, tissue culture, histology, cancer genetics, and the development and application of genetically engineered mouse models. The fellow will gain hands‑on experience with relevant experimental techniques and animal models to investigate disease mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers.

In addition, the fellow will strengthen skills in experimental design, data analysis, scientific interpretation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Training will emphasize the integration of findings across research projects and the communication of scientific discoveries through presentations at national meetings and participation in educational seminars. Through ongoing mentorship and collaborative research opportunities, the fellow will develop greater scientific independence, expand their expertise in cancer research, and build the skills necessary for continued career development.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must have a Ph.D. degree with strong research interests. Qualified individuals will have a background in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry/signal transduction, and expertise in the design and execution of in vivo experiments with different mouse models of lung cancer. Will use shared imaging tools needed for multiple quantifications of the results. Will be trained to perform specialized mouse exposures or related techniques.

Additional Application Information

Vaishnavi Lab: https://www.mdanderson.org/research/departments-labs-institutes/labs/vaishnavi-laboratory.html

POSITION INFORMATION

MD Anderson offers full-time postdoc positions with a salary ranging from $64,000 to $76,000. depending on the number of years of postgraduate experience. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, paid time off, retirement, tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition

Offsite work arrangements are subject to approval and may be modified or revoked at any time based on business needs, performance considerations, or regulatory requirements.

This position may be responsible for maintaining the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, as defined in Section 113.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code and therefore may require routine reviews and screening. The ability to satisfy and maintain all requirements necessary to ensure the continued security and integrity of such infrastructure is a condition of hire and continued employment.

It is the policy of The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. http://www.mdanderson.org/about-us/legal-and-policy/legal-statements/eeo-affirmative-action.html