Postdoctoral Fellow

University of Colorado • Aurora, CO

2d • $63,480 - $74,424 • Onsite

About The Position

The Thomas Lab is recruiting a postdoctoral associate for a funded position to study how intratumoral bacteria modulate the tumor microenvironment in oral squamous cell carcinoma. This 4-5-year project is supported by an NIH R56, the HNC SPORE, and other research funding. The postdoc will investigate the spatial and functional relationships between intratumoral bacteria and immune cell populations using spatial transcriptomics. Mechanisms by which bacteria modulate the tumor microenvironment will be studied using orthotopic mouse models, with a focus on myeloid cell populations. Translational work will involve peripheral blood profiling of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma. Training in the Thomas Lab is designed to support postdoctoral scholars pursuing careers in academia, industry, medicine, or other research-related fields. Professional development will be tailored to each scholar’s career goals and interests and will include opportunities such as: Scientific conferences: Funding to attend and present research at a minimum of one national scientific meeting each year, providing opportunities to disseminate findings, build professional networks, and engage with leaders in the field. Specialized training: Support for courses and workshops that build skills relevant to the scholar’s research and career goals, including microbiome and bioinformatics analysis, scientific and grant writing, and other methodological or professional development programs. Grant development and submission: Individualized mentorship to identify appropriate funding opportunities and develop competitive grant applications. Scholars will receive guidance throughout the application process, including the development of research proposals, specific aims, career development plans, and other application components. Potential opportunities include the NIH Loan Repayment Programs, grants and fellowships from professional societies and foundations, and institutional funding mechanisms. Mentorship experience: Opportunities to develop mentoring and leadership skills by working with medical students, residents, and other trainees engaged in laboratory research. Translational research exposure: Opportunities to engage with the University of Colorado Cancer Center and the Head and Neck Cancer SPORE, offering exposure to multidisciplinary, collaborative research and a firsthand view of how discoveries progress from the laboratory to clinical investigation and, ultimately, to patient care. Postdoctoral scholars will be encouraged to take increasing ownership of their scientific and professional development, including identifying training opportunities, building collaborations, presenting their work, and developing the skills needed for their next career stage.

Requirements

• PhD in microbiology, immunology, cancer biology, or a biomedical sciences-related field is required.

Nice To Haves

• Strong experience with flow cytometry, murine experiments, ELISA, and bacterial culture methods
• Some experience with microbiome methods and an interest in spatial transcriptomics
• Demonstrated skills in data analysis (R, SAS, or equivalent) and scientific writing
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Great attention to detail
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other faculty and staff at all levels throughout the institution

Benefits

• Generous leave
• Health plans
• Retirement contributions

What This Job Offers

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