Visiting Postdoctoral Scientist - Turkson Lab

Job Description

Duration: August 24, 2026 - August 23, 2027

Position Summary

A research laboratory within a leading academic cancer center is seeking an unpaid Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar to join a multidisciplinary translational cancer research program. The laboratory focuses on understanding the role of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) in cancer development and on developing innovative STAT3-targeted therapeutics for human cancers.

The research program integrates pharmacology, molecular biology, cancer cell biology, biochemistry, structural biology, and medicinal chemistry to advance the preclinical discovery and development of novel anticancer agents. Current projects include the development of small-molecule and natural product-based STAT3 inhibitors with demonstrated antitumor activity in preclinical breast and pancreatic cancer models. Ongoing efforts focus on advanced pharmacokinetic and toxicology studies to support future clinical translation.

This visiting appointment provides an immersive research experience in translational oncology while offering opportunities for scientific collaboration, technical skill development, and professional growth.

Role Overview

The Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar will contribute to ongoing research projects investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms of tumor development and progression. Under the guidance of experienced investigators, the scholar will gain hands-on experience with a broad range of experimental techniques while participating in laboratory operations and scientific activities.

The appointment is designed to foster advanced research training through mentorship, collaborative investigation, scientific communication, and exposure to multidisciplinary cancer research.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory research focused on cancer biology and STAT3 signaling.
• Perform experiments using tumor cell lines and mouse models.
• Execute molecular biology techniques, including gene cloning.
• Conduct protein expression, production, and purification studies.
• Participate in drug screening and in vivo therapeutic efficacy studies.
• Assist with routine laboratory organization and management activities.
• Attend and actively participate in laboratory meetings, seminars, grand rounds, and institutional scientific events.
• Present research findings during laboratory meetings and other scientific forums.
• Prepare research summaries and reports throughout the appointment.
• Training and Mentorship

The Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar will receive structured mentorship throughout the appointment.

During the initial 0-3 months, activities will be closely supervised while the scholar develops proficiency in laboratory methods and research techniques. As competency increases, responsibilities will transition to greater independence with continued scientific mentoring and guidance.

Training includes:

• Advanced molecular and cellular biology techniques
• Cancer pharmacology and translational oncology research
• Experimental design and data analysis
• Laboratory management and organization
• Scientific presentation and communication
• Collaborative research practices

Program Timeline

Months 0-3

• Learn the scientific background and objectives of the research program.
• Receive training in laboratory methodologies and experimental techniques.
• Develop laboratory management and organizational skills.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and institutional seminars.

Months 3-6

• Develop and begin executing an individualized research plan.
• Continue participation in laboratory meetings and institutional seminars.
• Expand technical proficiency across research platforms.

Months 6-9

• Execute research projects with increasing independence.
• Present research progress during laboratory meetings.
• Continue participation in institutional scientific activities.

Months 9-12

• Complete research objectives.
• Prepare research summaries and reports.
• Present final research findings to the laboratory team.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in molecular biology, cancer biology, pharmacology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
• Background or strong interest in cancer research and translational science.
• Experience with molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related laboratory techniques is preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the appointment, the Visiting Postdoctoral Scholar will have gained:

• Advanced experience in translational cancer research.
• Technical expertise in molecular, cellular, and preclinical research methodologies.
• Experience presenting scientific findings in laboratory and institutional settings.
• Exposure to laboratory operations and research program management.
• Mentored professional development within a collaborative academic research environment.