The Hu Lab in the Department of Immunology seeks to understand how the tumor microenvironment is spatially organized, what cell-cell interactions drive the emergence of spatial heterogeneity, and how this impacts responses to immunotherapy. We are specifically seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar to spearhead a project to create a comprehensive map of tumor vasculature and apply cutting-edge spatial transcriptomics and imaging techniques to understand how the perivascular neighborhood in the tumor is shaped by vascular properties / endothelial gene expression and vice versa. Using gene targets from these exploratory studies, we will seek to manipulate their expression in vivo. Finally, we seek to understand how these perivascular neighborhoods are differentially remodeled by ICB and translate findings to patient samples.

　　LEARNING OBJECTIVES

　　Will take overall responsibility for and drive the proposed project focusing on tumor vasculature and its implication for ICB response. This entails designing and planning of key experiments, troubleshooting, creative problem solving and taking the initiative to seek out new avenues of inquiry including collaborations. Will gain proficiency in fluorescent imaging of both thin sections as well as cleared whole mount tissues. Will perform quantification of images using analysis software. Will gain proficiency in flow cytometry including designing of multicolor panels, titration of antibody staining, and analysis. Will gain proficiency in mouse husbandry, designing and managing multi-allele breeding schemes and basic mouse manipulations. Expected to gain expertise in performing statistical tests for rigorous hypothesis testing and data visualization. Scholar will be also expected to develop skills for presenting and effectively communicating research both internally as well as extramurally at scientific conferences. Will apply single cell and single nuclei sequencing towards endothelial cells and immune cells in the tumor. This includes the analysis pipeline from raw sequencing data to dataset integration, clustering, pathway analysis and differential gene expression analysis. Will explore a range of spatial transcriptomic techniques to merge their imaging data and single cell transcriptomic data to identify gene expression patterns that underlie vascular heterogeneity in the tumor. Will integrate information with single cell transcriptomic data. Will gain proficiency in preparing viral vectors for delivery of transgenes and sgRNA for in vivo CRISPR based approaches. Will take the lead in writing up manuscripts or abstracts on the research with supervision from PI. May also be asked to assist in preparation of grant proposals or other literature such as review articles. Will be expected to take an active role in working with and training lab staff who will be assigned to assist with the project.

　　ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

　　A PhD or equivalent in the fields of Immunology, Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Systems Biology, or Biophysics is required. Experience in fluorescent microscopy, single cell transcriptomics, and flow cytometry preferred. Hands-on wet lab experience in molecular biology and tissue culture is required. As most of the work will focus on preclinical mouse models, a willingness to work with live mice is required. Prior experience with mouse work is also highly preferred. Prior experience with biostatistics and data visualization software is highly preferred. Good communication skills with supervisor and colleagues is a must. Excellent organizational skills of both experimental notes, data, and physical reagents are also a must. Candidate must have demonstrated proficiency in scientific writing through at least one lead-authorship manuscript.

　　POSITION INFORMATION

　　MD Anderson follows the NIH stipend levels as outlined by the Kirchstein - NRSA (https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-23-076.html) . This full-time trainee position will provide a salary between $56,484 to $68,604, dependent upon the years of postgraduate experience.

　　MD Anderson offers compensated trainees:

　　Paid medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for trainees who work 30 or more hours per week

　　Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage

　　Paid Education Vacation and Sick Leave

　　Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave and other paid leave programs

　　Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans

　　Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness-related reduced salary pay program

　　Health Savings Account and Dependent Care Reimbursement flexible spending accounts

　　Fertility benefits

　　State of Texas longevity pay

　　Extensive wellness, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups