Postdoctoral Position in Cancer Metabolism and Molecular Imaging

University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in the Penn Image-Guided Interventions Laboratory. The fellow will integrate imaging with cancer biology, chemistry and engineering to advance molecular imaging and therapeutic strategies.

The role emphasizes preclinical hyperpolarized MRI, PET and metabolomics with opportunities to lead projects toward first‑author publications. Collaborative, rigorous inquiry is expected.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by start date.
• Broad background in cancer biology, biochemistry, chemistry or related fields.
• Strong analytical, written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design experiments and interpret results; prepare manuscripts.
• Lead preclinical imaging and metabolomics studies.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and communicate findings.

Skills

Scientific initiative

Analytical skills

Written and verbal communication

Independent work

Collaborative work

Education

PhD or equivalent doctoral degree

Tools

Hyperpolarized MRI

Mass spectrometry

NMR spectroscopy

Mouse handling

Mammalian cell culture

Biochemistry techniques

Job description

Location

University of Pennsylvania - School of Medicine

Open Date

Oct 21, 2026

Description

Dr. David Tischfield, Assistant Professor of Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join his research program within the Penn Image-Guided Interventions Laboratory, directed by Dr. Terence Gade. Based in the Departments of Radiology and Cancer Biology, the laboratory brings together investigators with complementary expertise in cancer biology, chemistry, engineering, imaging, and clinical medicine. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Tischfield and collaborate with other co‑principal investigators and team members on integrated studies that draw on this multidisciplinary expertise. Dr. Tischfield’s research program investigates cancer metabolism and the tumor microenvironment to develop molecular imaging approaches and therapeutic strategies. The position emphasizes preclinical hyperpolarized carbon‑13 MRI, PET, and mass spectrometry–based metabolomics, integrating imaging with mechanistic studies in cells and animal models of cancer. The postdoctoral researcher will initially contribute to completing ongoing studies and will then take increasing ownership of projects leading to first‑author publications. Working closely with Dr. Tischfield and collaborators, the fellow will design experiments, interpret results, prepare manuscripts, and help shape new research directions.

Research Activities

• Preclinical hyperpolarized MRI and PET studies of tumor metabolism and treatment response
• Metabolomics and stable isotope tracing experiments
• Mechanistic studies using mouse models, mammalian cell culture, and molecular and biochemical assays
• Integration of imaging, mass spectrometry, and biological data
• Maintenance of rigorous experimental records
• Communication of findings through manuscripts and scientific presentations

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by the start date. Candidates from a broad range of fields are encouraged to apply, including:Cancer biologyBiochemistryChemistryBiomedical engineeringPhysicsRelated disciplines

Candidate Skills

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Scientific initiative
• Strong analytical skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment

Relevant experience in one or more of the following is preferred:

• Preclinical imaging
• Hyperpolarized MRI, conventional MRI, or NMR spectroscopy
• Mass spectrometry–based metabolomics or stable isotope tracing
• Chemistry
• Mouse handling and animal experimentation
• Mammalian cell culture
• Molecular biology or biochemical methods

Commitment

A minimum two‑year commitment is expected, with a preferred duration of four years to support project development and first‑author publications. Please note that all appointments are for one year‑periods, with reappointment on a yearly basis.

Visa Sponsorship

The University of Pennsylvania is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and, in most cases, is able to sponsor visas for qualified applicants. Visa sponsorship for this position is contingent upon eligibility as determined by the specific funding source and applicable regulations.

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.