The Eliceiri Lab, within the Department of Surgery at the University of California San Diego (UCSD), is seeking applications for a highly motivated Postdoctoral scholar to join a CDMRP-funded research project.
About the project & research focus
Our research program (eliceirilab.com) investigates tumor–immune interactions focusing on an acetylcholine receptor expressed on myeloid immune cells that has immunomodulatory activity in mouse models of triple negative breast cancer. We seek motivated candidates to lead hypothesis-driven investigations based on genetic and pharmacologic approaches that have translational relevance in human breast cancer based on a recent study published in the Journal of Immunology (PMID 40653990). Our over-arching goal is to develop models at the bench, in mice, and in human breast samples that define the molecular basis of specific ligand-gated calcium channels in the regulation of adaptive immune responses in breast cancer.
Work Environment & Resources
The Eliceiri laboratory is located on the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute (ACTRI) on the UC San Diego Health Sciences campus in La Jolla. This prime location offers full-time access to outstanding departmental and university resources. The lab is fully equipped with cutting-edge technology, including advanced flow cytometers and confocal microscopy systems. The vivarium is located two floors below the laboratory, allowing for efficient execution of in vivo experiments.
Job Summary
Successful applicants will possess a strong interest in immuno-oncology, mouse models of breast cancer, and neuropharmacology. Candidates are expected to work independently as well as interact with the Principal Investigator, laboratory team members, and external collaborators.
The applicant will be expected to make significant contributions to project development, experimental design, data collection, and interpretation. The candidate will be required to present and share their findings within the laboratory and outside the laboratory at local, national, and international conferences. They will also be expected to participate and collaborate with other lab members, thereby serving as a co-author on laboratory publications. The successful applicant may also be requested to take on some supervisory activities.
Job Requirements
Required Education:
o Ph.D. in biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, oncology, neuropharmacology, or other relevant field. Candidates nearing graduation are strongly encouraged to apply.
Publications:
· At least two first-author peer-reviewed publications.
Technical Proficiency:
· Hands-on experience in mouse studies, multi-color flow cytometry, immune cell isolation, tissue culture, ELISA, western blotting, cloning, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, calcium signaling, animal handling, and histochemical evaluation.
· Proficiency with in vivo dosing techniques, preferably tail vein, and i.p. injection.
Project management, communication, and interpersonal skills:
· Demonstrated experience managing an independent research project to completion, culminating in a scientific publication.
· Excellent scientific writing, communication, project management and organization.
· Exceptional problem-solving abilities, the capacity to learn quickly, and the ability to work productively both independently and as part of a diverse, collaborative team.
Preferred:
· Experience with flow cytometry, ELISA, and magnetic cell isolation.
· Experience working with mouse cancer models, and preparation of tissues/cells for analysis (e.g., single cell for flow, establishment of primary cultures and immunostaining).
· Experience with the preparation of organotypic cultures from primary human breast tissue for ex vivo imaging analysis (e.g. fresh tissue immunostaining and calcium signaling).
Commitment
Two-year position with the potential for annual reappointment, pending satisfactory progress and the availability of grant funding.
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit their application materials directly to Dr. Eliceiri at [email protected].
Please combine your application into a single PDF file and specify the position you are applying for (Postdoctoral Scholar) in the email subject line. Your PDF must include:
1. A 1-2 page cover letter detailing:
a. Your specific interest in joining the Eliceiri Lab.
b. Your past and current research background.
c. How joining our research group aligns with your long-term career goals.
2. A current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
3. Contact information for 3 professional references (direct supervisors preferred).
Application Question(s):
- Do you have experience with Flow-Jo, confocal microscopy, calcium signaling?
Experience:
- mouse models of cancer: 1 year (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Pay: $69,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
