POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE-Pediatrics Hematology Oncology

School of Medicine:

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Occupational Summary

We are looking for an energetic and motivated individual to join our childhood cancer translational research team. We study a pediatric skeletal muscle solid tumor called rhabdomyosarcoma, and we have a mandate by the NCI Cancer Moonshot program to inform new therapies for this difficult-to-treat disease. Focus is on how two classes of renegade proteins, the PAX3-FOXO1 fusion and H/K/N-RAS oncoproteins, corrupt normal developmental signaling pathways (Notch, Hippo) and might reveal novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. Priority projects are (i) saturation mutagenesis of PAX3-FOXO1 to inform its proteomic-epigenomic interactions, and (ii) development of novel therapeutic approaches to block rhabdomyosarcoma tumorigenesis. We collaborate with investigators within Duke (Cell Biology and Pharmacology & Cancer Biology Departments) and along the East coast, so being independent and able to interface with multiple work groups is critical. We use biochemical, cell biology, molecular biology, genomic, epigenomic, and mouse model approaches. We value teamwork, creativity, and resilience. A two-year commitment (or beyond) is preferred. See our lab’s website https://sites.duke.edu/corinnelinardiclab/ .

Work Performed

· Perform literature reviews to guide research

· Design and execution of standard in vitro assays ongoing in the lab (transient or stable expression of cDNA/shRNAs/CRISPR, mutagenesis, IPs, immunoblotting, nucleic acid extractions, PCR, phenotype-based cell assays including proliferation, apoptosis, myogenic differentiation, etc)

· Design and implementation of in vitro screens including base editing and deep mutational scanning, with input from the Duke Functional Genomics, Sequencing, and Proteomics cores

· Participation in in vivo murine pre-clinical studies (SQ and orthotopic xenografts) and tumor tissue analyses including immunohistochemistry and preparation for next-gen sequencing

· Application of statistically sound analyses

· Participating in drafting of LOIs, grant applications, abstracts, posters, and manuscripts

· Participating and presenting in domestic/international childhood cancer think thank meetings

· Functioning as a resource for early stage scientists (graduate students and technicians)

· Flexing one’s intellectual muscles to think out-of-the box for this difficult-to-cure cancer

Required Qualifications at this Level

· PhD (or doctoral degree equivalent) in Biochemistry, Genetics, or Cell/Molecular Biology with a record of publication in peer-reviewed journals (preferred). Candidates with expertise in cancer biology are encouraged to apply. The position entails a one to three-year period, with extension contingent on performance and funding.

· Ability to perform molecular & cellular protocols and mouse techniques, cloning, mutagenesis, standard biochemistry for protein analysis, lentiviral-based protocols

· Qualifying competencies include excellent oral and written communication skills.

· Excellent organizational skills, creativity, self-motivation, ability to work independently and as part of a team.

See job description for education requirements.

See job description for requirements.

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