Chair, Department of Cancer Biology

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

JOB DETAILS
LOCATION
Philadelphia, PA
POSTED
30+ days ago


The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania invites applications and nominations for the position of Chair of the Department of Cancer Biology. This is an exceptional opportunity for an accomplished and visionary scientific leader to advance a department renowned for its fundamental discoveries and translational impact in cancer research.



Founded in 2000, the Department of Cancer Biology is dedicated to uncovering the molecular, cellular, and genetic foundations of cancer, with the ultimate aim of reducing its impact. The department also prioritizes training future cancer scientists and physicians. Through strategic leadership, it has developed robust research and educational programs that are deeply embedded within the Perelman School of Medicine (PSOM), the University, and the broader community. Its esteemed faculty advance scientific knowledge and mentor emerging researchers, offering comprehensive training to undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows.



The Department of Cancer Biology is closely aligned with the Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, in addition to key partnerships with the Division of Hematology-Oncology, the Abramson Cancer Center, the Basser Center for BRCA, and the Center for Cancer Data Science. It also has collaborative relationships with the Division of Endocrine and Oncologic Surgery, as well as the Departments of Bioengineering, Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Radiation Oncology, and Radiology.



The Chair of the Department directs 19 full-time faculty and 41 research support and administrative staff, with cutting-edge research programs spanning cancer genetics, cancer cell biology, angiogenesis, DNA damage response and genomic stability, genetically engineered animal models, oncogenic signaling and oncogene addiction, tumor dormancy, cell cycle deregulation, tumor metabolism, tumor suppressor networks, small animal imaging, and computational biology.



The Department of Cancer Biology plays a vital role in Penn’s educational ecosystem, with 63 trainees largely drawn from the Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Group. Students and trainees are offered opportunities at every stage of their academic journey.



The Chair will provide strong vision and leadership for the Department and will lead strategic planning and implementation for its continued success. Applicants for the position of Chair must hold an MD and/or PhD degree and qualify for a faculty appointment as Associate Professor or Professor in the Standing Faculty of the PSOM at the University of Pennsylvania. Candidates should have a distinguished national/international record of research, possess dynamic leadership, and have significant administrative expertise. Candidates must have a clear commitment to – and excellence in – education, sponsorship and mentorship of students, trainees and faculty. Candidates must have demonstrated the ability to foster strong collaborations among investigators within the Department, the PSOM, the campus community and beyond. Candidates must articulate a compelling vision for the future of cancer biology at the PSOM, the role of the Department within a highly regarded academic medical center, and the broader field of cancer biology.



All interested applicants are invited to apply by uploading their curriculum vitae, letter of interest, and research statement, attention David A. Mankoff, MD, PhD. First consideration will be given to applications received by December 20, 2025.






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.

About the Company

U

University of Pennsylvania

Penn's beautiful urban campus provides easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. We offer excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for you and your family, as well as generous retirement benefits, professional development opportunities and flexible work options. Penn is a diverse, multicultural learning community at the cutting edge of research and information technology. Click here to read more about why we're a Best Employer. Not only does Penn offer a unique environment within the city of Philadelphia to work, we also provide a wide array of employee benefits. From a competitive retirement program and comprehensive health care options to health promotion and wellness services and tuition assistance, there's a wealth of opportunities and resources available to you at Penn.

Penn is frequently cited as an outstanding employer:

  • Recipient of the 2010 Terri Lynne Lokoff Child Care Foundation Corporate Leadership Award for commitment to supporting worklife balance programs.
  • Selected as a recipient of the 2010 Healthy Workplace Award by the Philadelphia Business Journal and presenting sponsor UnitedHealthcare
  • Recognized as a 2010 Top Workplace by The Philadelphia Inquirer/Daily News.
  • Recipient of the 2009 Vision Award for commitment to workforce diversity and economic inclusion.
  • Selected for Computerworld's 100 Best Places to Work in IT six years in a row!
  • Recognized by the Delaware Valley Association for the Education of Young Children as a 2006 Best Employer for Working Parents
  • Named a Best Place to Work in the November 2007 issue of Philadelphia Magazine.
  • Designated a Best Workplace for Commuters by the National Center for Transit Research
COMPANY SIZE
100 to 499 employees
INDUSTRY
Advertising and PR Services
FOUNDED
1990
WEBSITE
http://www.cmimedia.com/