POSTDOCTORAL AFFAIRS

Postdoctoral Training Opportunity - Cancer Genomics/Gene Editing

The Abazeed Laboratory in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Northwestern University has an opening for a highly motivated postdoctoral trainee to assist with developing the most resistant human cells to ionizing radiation using state-of-the-art gene editing methodology. The lab has developed an information capability at the forefront of identifying gene alterations that affect the survival of mammalian cells to sparsely- (e.g. X-ray, y-rays) and densely ionizing (heavy particle) irradiation. The overall impact of this work extends beyond its current focus of therapeutic resistance in cancer, including guiding strategies for the protection of mammals from radiation incidents, during space travel, and for the safe colonization of distant planets.

The laboratory seeks to study the impact of different irradiation sources on mammalian genomes and counteract or minimize these effects by cis- and trans-gene interventions. They also seek to create conditions to accelerate either genetic evolution driven by the current templates of genes or de novo evolution; the latter is critical as sources of irradiation and their intensity may require an evolvable capability.

The laboratory offers a mentored research environment characterized by a passion for science, the ability to acquire new and diverse skills, instruction in experimental and computational rigor, and an environment where self-driven and enthusiastic trainees can thrive.

Relevant Manuscripts

1. Abazeed, M.E. et al. Integrative radiogenomic profiling of squamous cell lung cancer. Cancer Res 73, 6289-98 (2013).
2. Kim, J.W. et al. Characterizing genomic alterations in cancer by complementary functional associations. Nat Biotechnol 34, 539-46 (2016).
3. Yard, B.D. et al. A genetic basis for the variation in the vulnerability of cancer to DNA damage. Nat Commun 7, 11428 (2016).
4. Yard, B.D. et al. Cellular and Genetic Determinants of the Sensitivity of Cancer to alpha-Particle Irradiation. Cancer Res (2019).
5. The radiogenomic atlas of human cancers. Manuscript in preparation.

Role

• A trainee with an interest in a career in gene editing assay development, next-generation sequencing, functional genomics, and high-content screens
• Self-motivated and goal-oriented biologist with experience in assay development and gene editing, regardless of model system. Prior work with prokaryotes or lower eukaryotes is acceptable and is viewed positively.
• Highly collaborative, resourceful, and effective team player who is enthusiastic to tackle challenging scientific and technical problems.

Desired Skill Sets

• Experience in assay development, gene editing, and sequencing
• Experience in primary cell culture
• Experience in barcode technology and next-generation sequencing
• Knowledge and hands-on experience with CRISPR/Cas9
• Working knowledge of applicable biology background for relevant topical areas
• Highly motivated scientist with particular attention to detail and the ability to independently plan, design and implement experiments
• Work cooperatively with multidisciplinary teams and present results at team meetings

Application

Please send CV, statement of research interests, and three references to:

Mohamed Abazeed, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Medicine
Scientific Director, Lung Cancer Program
Director, Center for Precision Radiotherapy
The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
Feinberg School of Medicine
Northwestern University
mabazeed@northwestern.edu