Job Description: Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.
Postdoctoral Scholar
US-OR-Portland
Job ID: 2024-32337 Type: Regular Full-Time # of Openings: 1 Category: Postdoctoral Portland, OR (Marquam Hill)
Overview
A fully funded, three-year postdoctoral position is available in the Davare Lab at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Portland, OR. The Davare Lab conducts translational research with a focus on understanding the cell-signaling pathways that drive oncogenesis in rare but aggressive cancers, including pediatric and adult bone sarcomas and brain tumors. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar to lead the development of a therapeutic discovery platform for pediatric bone sarcoma, involving primary patient samples and advanced model systems.
The postdoctoral fellow will play a key role in:
Developing and optimizing patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models and organoid cultures.
Collaborating with OHSU’s biofabrication hub to create innovative tumor-on-chip models.
Conducting in vitro and in vivo functional studies using combination inhibitor screens, siRNA and/or CRISPR/CAS9 functional genomic screens on patient-derived models
Collaborating with the clinical team to integrate laboratory data with clinical insights for both hypothesis-driven and exploratory research, contributing to the understanding of sarcoma biology and therapeutic response.
This position offers significant opportunities for career development, including project leadership, participation in grant writing, and manuscript preparation. The ideal candidate is a collaborative team player who actively fosters a positive and inclusive lab culture while building expertise in translational cancer research.
Research Environment The Davare Lab is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment that promotes mutual respect and innovation. This position offers substantial opportunities for professional growth within a supportive and collaborative research team, and the successful candidate will gain advanced skills that are relevant for both academic and industry career paths.
Responsibilities
PhD in biochemistry, cell biology, pharmacology, cancer biology, or a related field
0-1 years of postdoctoral experience.
Skills: Proficiency in a range of cell and molecular biology and biochemical techniques such as aseptic mammalian cell culture, viral transduction, microscopy, immunoblotting, qRT-PCR, and RNAi/CRISPR-Cas9 methods
Proficiency in aseptic cell and tissue culture techniques, with demonstrated experience maintaining primary patient-derived cells or long term culture of mammalian cells.
Advanced proficiency in a broad range of molecular biology and biochemical techniques.
Foundational knowledge of imaging methods, including cell and tissue staining.
Ability to design and execute well-controlled experiments independently and collaboratively.
Excellent analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to analyze data, compile figures, and prepare results for publication or grant submissions.
Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written), with a proven ability to present research findings in meetings and conferences and to prepar.e manuscripts for publication.
Proficiency with Windows OS applications and common software tools for data analysis and presentation.
Strong motivation and commitment to publish research findings.
Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as project timelines or experiments require.
Collaborative team player who contributes positively to an inclusive and respectful lab environment.
Attributes: Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities (both verbal and written), and a commitment to publishing research findings.Attributes: Strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities (both verbal and written), and a commitment to publishing research findings.
Qualifications
PhD in cancer biology, cell biology, or a closely related field.
Experience:
Experience with murine models is highly desirable but not essential; candidates with a strong willingness to learn and develop these skills are encouraged to apply. Familiarity with other cancer models, such as organoids or in vitro systems, is also beneficial.
Experience with 3D culture and organoid models
Experience with patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models
Creative problem-solving skills, demonstrating resourcefulness in addressing complex research challenges
Creative problem-solving skills, demonstrating resourcefulness in addressing complex research challenges
Research Background: At least one first-author or co-first authored publication from doctoral research.
Additional Skills: Proficiency with data visualization and analysis tools (e.g., Prism, R) and advanced molecular biology techniques.
Personal Qualities: A team player who values collaboration and actively contributes to a positive and inclusive lab culture.
