Postdoctoral Scholar

Department: MED-Urology
Salary/Grade: RES/

Job Summary:

Bladder cancer remains one of the most pressing public health concerns worldwide, demanding innovative research to address its complexities and challenges. To this end, we are seeking applications from candidates with a creative approach to research with wet lab competencies, and encourage applicants with wet and dry lab skills to apply.

Our research focuses on the role of epigenetic regulation in bladder cancer initiation, examining both normal homeostasis and its response to environmental and endogenous factors. Recent studies have shown that carcinogenesis does not rely solely on DNA mutations, but also involves significant epigenetic alterations. Our own research has specifically highlighted how exposure to chemicals and irritants, such as those found in tobacco and industrial pollutants, contributes to bladder cancer through epigenetic reprogramming. It is now imperative to understand which cells within the bladder are most susceptible to these environmental triggers and the epigenetic mechanisms that drive them toward tumorigenesis. By identifying common epigenetic pathways across different cellular contexts, we aspire to pinpoint actionable targets suitable for therapeutic intervention to prevent the onset of cancer.

In parallel, our research is dedicated to advancing our understanding of bladder tumor evolution biology through the analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data and the tumor microenvironment. Utilizing genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic sequencing, as well as spatial immunophenotyping data from patient samples, our goal is to track the intricate epigenetic and genetic evolutionary trajectories of bladder tumors across various stages and environments. This work aims to identify the key drivers of cancer progression, immune resistance mechanisms, and potential vulnerabilities within the tumor microenvironment. Our pursuit of these insights promises to pave the way for more personalized and precise interventions, thereby enhancing patient outcomes.

What we offer:

• An open, supportive, and motivating academic environment with excellent training opportunities.
• The possibility to work on cutting-edge and novel translational research projects.
• A broad spectrum of methods, including bioinformatics, biochemistry, cell culture, next generation sequencing, and animal models.
• Investment in career development, fostering critical research skills, scientific writing, and editing.
• A two-year fellowship with the possibility of extension.

Our laboratory is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome applicants from underrepresented groups. Apply now to join our innovative and highly collaborative team at Northwestern University and take the next step in your career in cancer research.

To apply, please submit a CV, a cover letter, and a list of publications to joshua.meeks@northwestern.edu

Please note: Occasional weekends and evenings as requested and with some possible travel, as required.

Specific Responsibilities:

• Study execution and data analysis.
• Manuscript preparation and presentations at national meetings.
• Communicating data and conclusions effectively in both written and oral forms.
• Support the research team by performing other related duties as needed.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. in cancer, developmental biology, stem cells, immunology, genomics, with a record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Knowledge and interest in cancer biology, immunology, and mouse models
• Technical qualifications: mouse breeding and histology, immunology, epigenetic assays, cell culture
• Bioinformatics skills: use of R (or python) to analyze gene expression, single-cell and mutation analysis

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills with particular emphasis on data visualization
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with a track record of writing papers in peer reviewed journals and presentations at scientific meetings
• Ability to work independently, but also contribute to a research team

Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful, competitive, high-quality health care plans, retirement benefits, tuition discounts and more! Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.