Sign upLog in

Postdoc in Cancer Immunology

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

Apply
JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Assays, Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedicine, Cancer, Career Development, Cell Biology, Cell Cultures, Clinical Information Systems, Clinical Outcomes, Communication Skills, Disease, Funding, Grant Writing, Immunology, Medicine, Molecular Biology, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Oncology, Physiology, Polarization, SLICE (Simulation Language with Integrated Circuit Emphasis), T-2 / DS2, Team Player, Writing Skills
LOCATION
Philadelphia, PA
POSTED
20 days ago


Funding is available for a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join an NIH R01–funded research program investigating bitter taste receptor (T2R) signaling in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). This work focuses on understanding how G protein–coupled receptor signaling shapes macrophage behavior within the tumor microenvironment and how these pathways can be leveraged to promote anti-tumor immunity.







Oral squamous cell carcinoma remains a highly lethal disease, with clinical outcomes strongly influenced by immune composition and macrophage phenotype within the tumor microenvironment. Tumor-associated macrophages play a central role in regulating tumor progression, immune suppression, and response to therapy, yet many of the signaling pathways governing macrophage–tumor interactions remain poorly understood. Our laboratory has identified bitter taste receptors as previously unrecognized immune signaling receptors expressed on macrophages and oral cancer cells, where their activation influences phagocytosis, inflammatory signaling, and tumor cell survival. These findings point to taste receptor pathways as novel, targetable mechanisms for modulating anti-cancer immunity.







The postdoctoral fellow will lead projects examining how bitter taste receptor signaling regulates macrophage function, including efferocytosis, polarization, and interactions with oral cancer cells. Experimental approaches will include studies using primary human monocyte-derived macrophages from healthy donors and patients with OSCC, patient-derived tumor slice cultures that preserve the native tumor microenvironment, and murine models to evaluate immune infiltration and tumor growth in vivo. The work integrates mechanistic signaling studies with translational immune-oncology questions.







Research in the Carey laboratory spans cancer biology, immunology, GPCR signaling, and translational medicine. We use a combination of live-cell and confocal imaging, biochemical and molecular techniques, primary human tissues, and in vivo models. A major emphasis is placed on clinically relevant systems and direct translation of laboratory findings toward novel therapeutic strategies for head and neck cancer.







The postdoctoral fellow will work closely with the PI, Dr. Ryan Carey, in a highly collaborative research environment with strong ties to clinical oncology and institutional core facilities. Training will be provided in advanced live-cell imaging and signaling assays as needed. The fellow will be encouraged to develop independent research directions, publish first-author manuscripts, and pursue career development activities including grant writing, conference presentations, and interdisciplinary collaborations.



Applicants should hold a PhD or MD in a relevant biological or biomedical discipline (e.g., immunology, cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, physiology). Prior experience with cell culture, immune cells, imaging, or signaling pathways is helpful but not required. Strong communication skills, intellectual curiosity, independence, and the ability to work collaboratively are essential. Individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, and those from socially, culturally, economically, or educationally disadvantaged backgrounds, are strongly encouraged to apply.







Salary and benefits will follow NIH postdoctoral guidelines. Information on postdoctoral policies and benefits is available through the Penn Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs.



Please upload a cover letter, CV, and names of at least two references into Interfolio. Questions can be directed to ryan.carey [at] pennmedicine.upenn.edu




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/

Resume Resources

Free Resume TemplatesFree Resume Builder