UNIV - Post Doctoral Scholar - Pharmacology & Immunology

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The de Cubas Laboratory at the Hollings Cancer Center and Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join a growing research program focused on understanding how epigenetic alterations drive cancer progression and therapeutic response. Our laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms by which loss of the chromatin regulator SETD2 promotes kidney cancer development through altered mitochondrial biology, innate immune signaling, and tumor-immune interactions. We recently identified a novel therapeutic vulnerability in SETD2-deficient tumors involving mitochondrial DNA leakage, cGAS-STING activation, and BCL-XL dependency, providing new opportunities for targeted and immune-based therapies. Current projects integrate cancer biology, immunology, functional genomics, advanced microscopy, and preclinical mouse models to develop next-generation therapeutic strategies for solid tumors. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead independent projects while working in a highly collaborative environment alongside cancer biologists, immunologists, clinicians, and computational scientists. The laboratory is supported by multiple funded projects and is committed to providing strong mentorship, scientific independence, and career development.

Requirements

• PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in cancer biology, immunology, molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Strong publication record appropriate for career stage.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers license.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.

Nice To Haves

• Kidney cancer research
• Cancer biology
• Tumor immunology
• Epigenetics or chromatin biology
• Mitochondrial biology
• Functional genomics
• Flow cytometry
• Advanced microscopy
• Bioinformatics
• Mouse models of disease
• Scientific creativity, independence, excellent communication skills, and a strong publication record appropriate to career stage.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects and develop new scientific directions
• Perform and develop advanced experimental approaches including cell culture, CRISPR gene editing, flow cytometry, immunoblotting, microscopy, functional cellular assays, molecular biology techniques, and genomic analyses.
• Design and execute mouse studies including orthotopic, syngeneic, and xenograft tumor models. Responsibilities include animal procedures, therapeutic studies, tissue collection, immune profiling, and integration of in vivo findings with mechanistic studies.
• Prepare manuscripts, abstracts, fellowship applications, and grant proposals. Present research findings at laboratory meetings, institutional seminars, and national or international scientific conferences.
• Contribute to the training and mentorship of graduate students, research staff, and undergraduate trainees. Assist in fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating research environment.

Benefits

• Individualized mentorship tailored toward academic faculty positions, biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry, or translational research careers
• Access to state-of-the-art resources including advanced microscopy, genomics, flow cytometry, spatial biology, and animal modeling cores within an NCI-designated Cancer Center

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree