UNIV - Post Doctoral Fellow - Department of Biochemistry

MUSC Health; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading medical institution in Charleston is looking for a motivated Post Doctoral Fellow in the Department of Biochemistry to advance cancer research. Candidates should have a Ph.D. and experience in bioinformatics, data analysis, and communication. The role involves analyzing molecular data to enhance personalized therapy and engage with clinical trials. This position offers a 12-month contract with the possibility of renewal.

Qualifications

• Ideal candidates should have experience in data science related to cancer biology or immunotherapy.
• Must possess excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Experience with bioinformatics projects is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret complex molecular datasets.
• Collaborate with scientists to develop workflows for data analysis.
• Evaluate molecular biomarkers for clinical trials.

Skills

Data science in cancer biology

Bioinformatics

Excellent communication skills

Machine learning modelling

Programming (e.g., Python or R)

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate

Tools

Deep learning frameworks

Job description

UNIV - Post Doctoral Fellow - Department of Biochemistry

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Job Description Summary

Job Summary:

The laboratory of Dr. Sahin in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at MUSC is currently recruiting a talented & motivated post-doctoral fellow in the field of bioinformatics with cancer biology. Qualified candidates should have training in bioinformatics analyses to support the expanding emphasis on projects focused on elucidating the relationship of treatment responses, particularly immunotherapy, and the genomic landscape of patient tumors. A doctoral degree is required in related areas: bioinformatics, genomics, genetics, computational biology, biomedical informatics, computer science, medicine, biostatistics, or related disciplines.

The Sahin lab focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms of cancer therapeutics, drug resistance, and metastasis mainly in breast and kidney cancers. We are also interested in developing and pre-clinical testing of novel anti-cancer therapeutics that are easily translatable to clinics. The major research theme of the Sahin lab is to identify the mechanisms of drug resistance/metastasis and target these resistance/metastasis-driving factors with either own developed compounds or available drugs to overcome resistance/block metastasis. Combining animal models with high-throughput transcriptomics/proteomics approaches, bioinformatics/modeling tools and clinical sample analyses, our dynamic group focuses on identifying novel targets overcoming resistance to state-of-art clinically approved or -tested drugs and preventing metastatic spread of breast cancer. Studies will use a range of complementary methods including biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology, single cell transcriptomics/proteomics, functional cell-based assays, and mouse genetic models. Our projects are funded by the grants from the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, The Department of Defense, Mary Kay Foundation and SmartState Program of South Carolina.

Job Purpose

As part of our research group of bioinformaticians, molecular biologists, and physicians, you will analyze high-dimensional molecular data (whole-genome, transcriptome, epigenome, and proteome) from cancer patients. Your work will provide critical interpretations that guide personalized therapy recommendations. In addition, you will evaluate molecular biomarkers to support patient inclusion in clinical trials, helping to push the boundaries of precision oncology.

Key Responsibilities

Analyze and interpret complex molecular datasets to identify clinically actionable changes

Advance the integration of multi-omics and clinical datasets to uncover mechanisms of tumor evolution, therapeutic resistance, and potential biomarkers.

Assess molecular biomarkers for inclusion in controlled clinical trials

Collaborate with leading scientists to develop innovative workflows and pipelines for high-dimensional data analysis

Work with the PI to develop a career development plan and participate in various career advancement opportunities.

Interact and coordinate efforts with undergraduate/graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in the same research group.

Stay updated on the latest advancements in bioinformatics and genomics research and present findings to internal teams and external stakeholders, while also publishing research outcomes and presenting at conferences.

MUSC Minimum Training And Experience Requirements

• The Postdoctoral appointee must have recently (within the last 3 years) been awarded a Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., Sc.D., M.D.).
• Experience in data science in cancer biology and/or immunotherapy development
• Nice to have experience in advanced molecular and cell biology techniques and animal handling/breeding
• Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills
• Term Length: 1 year with option to renew Requested Appointment Date
• Contract Type: 12-month with the option to extend for subsequent year(s) upon satisfactory performance
• Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with deep learning modelling
• Experience with bioinformatics projects
• Relevant publications in peer-reviewed journals
• A strong background in programming (e.g. Python or R)
• Demonstrated experience with machine learning modelling
• Interest in learning biological/genetic concepts

The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need.