Postdoctoral Fellow – T cell and B cell biology in cancer - Chan

Houston Methodist • Houston, TX

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Keith Syson Chan laboratory https://www.research4cure.org/ has assembled a highly supportive research environment for trainees, and is seeking a self-motivated, career goal-driven postdoc (at all levels) with enthusiasm to identify novel immune checkpoints and/or investigate how adaptive immune response can be leveraged for therapies [ Nature 517 : 209–213 (2015); Nature Communications 10 : 2131 (2019); Nature Communications 11 : 6299 (2020); Nature Communications 13 : 1487 (2022); J Natl Cancer Inst . 2022 114(10):1380-1391; Nature Reviews Urology 19 : 515–533 (2022)]. We have established tumor models representing hot and cold tumors with scRNAseq profiling and corresponding differential response to immune checkpoint blockade therapy. These data and models will be used as the foundation for project mining and experimental investigations. Our lab also has in-lab flow cytometry analyzer and sorter, spatial biology platforms (e.g., 10X Xenium, 10X CytAssist, Akoya PhenoCycler etc), proteomics profiling capacity, and ample fundings to integrate omics data with functional assays for research investigations. Candidates are highly welcome to bring their own ideas, those with at least one first author publication and expertise in T cell or B cell biology, or one of following research topics are highly encouraged to apply: T/B cell development, T/B cell receptor repertoire sequencing Cancer immunology and the immune TME Immunometabolism Mechanisms of immune exclusion and checkpoint resistance Secondary (e.g., lymph node) and tertiary lymphoid structure biology Therapeutic antibody evaluation Postdoc candidates receive equal benefits as full-time Methodist employees.

Requirements

• Doctor of Medicine (MD) from an accredited medical school or Terminal Degree in a related field (A letter from the academic institution certifying that all student work is complete will be considered for Postdoctoral Fellow 0 only.)
• Demonstrates the skills and competencies necessary to safely perform the assigned job, determined through on-going skills, competency assessments, and performance evaluations
• Sufficient proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing the English language necessary to perform the essential functions of this job, especially with regard to activities impacting patient or employee safety or security
• Ability to effectively communicate with patients, physicians, family members and co-workers in a manner consistent with a customer service focus and application of positive language principles
• Demonstrated knowledge of biomedical research
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability in the workplace

Nice To Haves

• at least one first author publication and expertise in T cell or B cell biology, or one of following research topics are highly encouraged to apply: T/B cell development
• T/B cell receptor repertoire sequencing Cancer immunology and the immune TME Immunometabolism Mechanisms of immune exclusion and checkpoint resistance Secondary (e.g., lymph node) and tertiary lymphoid structure biology Therapeutic antibody evaluation

Responsibilities

• Assists the physician in maintaining the functionality and operations of the Principal Investigator's (PI) laboratory.
• Promotes a positive work environment and leads the team to be dynamic and a focused work unit that actively helps one other to achieve optimal department results.
• Collaborates with all members of the department by actively communicating and reporting data in a comprehensive manner.
• Role models to team members effective verbal, non-verbal and written communication, which includes active listening and teaching, assisting in development of such skills.
• Provides contributions towards improvement of department scores for employee engagement, i.e. peer-to-peer accountability.
• Develops research methods and performs research activities.
• Documents research results and writes reports of results for presentation and/or publication in professional journals and other publications.
• Follows all safety rules while on the job.
• Reports accidents promptly and corrects minor safety hazards.
• Communicates with peers and management regarding any hazards identified in the workplace.
• Assists with implementation and education of department-based safety initiatives, standards of practice and protocols.
• Develops skills of team members and continually assists with improving skills, performance and outcomes.
• Identifies opportunities for corrective action and process improvement providing recommendations and contributes to meeting department and laboratory targets for quality and safety.
• Utilizes resources effectively and efficiently, demonstrating responsible financial stewardship.
• Manages own time effectively and prioritizes work to achieve maximum results in a timely manner.
• Uses resources efficiently; does not waste supplies.
• Self-motivated to independently manage time effectively and prioritize daily tasks.
• Participates in pertinent research activities and evidenced-based practice projects.
• Participates in departmental projects and activities.
• Acts as a change agent.
• Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies with a focus on continual development.
• Remains current on professional issues and clinical skills.
• Completes and updates the My Development Plan on an on-going basis.
• Ensures own career discussions occur with appropriate management.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees