UNIV - Post Doctoral Scholar - Exempt - Department of Neuroscience

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

5d

About The Position

The Song Laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience and Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying glioma progression, therapeutic resistance, and tumor-immune interactions. Research areas include RNA alternative splicing, functional genomics, tumor metabolism, and cancer immunology, with the aim of identifying therapeutic vulnerabilities and developing treatments for brain tumors. Projects may include exon-centric CRISPR screening, alternative splicing regulation of sphingolipid metabolism and therapy resistance, targeting RNA splicing factors, and iPSC-derived microglia-based immunotherapy. The work integrates molecular and cellular biology, CRISPR technologies, transcriptomics, iPSC models, patient-derived glioma models, and preclinical animal models.

The scholar will design and conduct experiments, develop and optimize research methods, collect and analyze data, and interpret findings. The role also involves preparing manuscripts, presenting research at scientific meetings, contributing to grant applications, collaborating with investigators, and potentially mentoring and training junior laboratory members. The position offers opportunities to develop independent research projects and publish scientific findings.

Requirements

• Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree.
• In-depth knowledge of cancer biology, molecular biology, immunology, or related biomedical research disciplines.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to work rotating shifts as required.
• Ability to work overtime as required.
• Ability to learn and use new processes, tools, and equipment as required.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and conduct laboratory experiments investigating glioma biology, RNA alternative splicing, tumor metabolism, and tumor-immune interactions.
• Apply molecular and cellular biology techniques, CRISPR-based gene editing and functional screening, patient-derived glioma cell models, and iPSC-derived microglia systems.
• Develop and optimize experimental approaches to investigate molecular mechanisms and evaluate potential therapeutic strategies.
• Collect, organize, analyze, and interpret experimental data using molecular, cellular, genomic, and imaging-based approaches.
• Perform or participate in transcriptomic and functional genomic analyses.
• Maintain accurate experimental records, evaluate findings, and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Prepare scientific manuscripts, abstracts, presentations, and research reports.
• Contribute to grant applications and new research proposals.
• Collaborate with investigators across neuroscience, cancer biology, immunology, and translational medicine.
• Assist in training and mentoring junior laboratory members and support the development of laboratory protocols.
• Ensure compliance with institutional laboratory safety, animal research, and research integrity requirements.

What This Job Offers

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