Postdoctoral Research Opportunity – Epigenetic Regulation in Bladder Cancer Initiation
Bladder cancer remains one of the most pressing public health concerns worldwide, demanding innovative research to address its complexities and challenges. To this end, the laboratory of Joshua Meeks is seeking applications from candidates with a creative approach to research with wet lab competencies and encourages applicants with wet and dry lab skills to apply. Dr. Meeks is an Associate Professor of Urology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, as well as Section Chief of Robotic Surgery at the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center.
Our lab's research direction investigates the role of epigenetic regulation in bladder cancer initiation, both in normal homeostasis and in response to environmental and endogenous factors. Recent studies have revealed that carcinogenesis does not solely rely on DNA mutations but also involves significant epigenetic alterations. Our research has specifically highlighted how exposure to chemicals and irritants, such as those found in tobacco and industrial pollutants, contributes to bladder cancer through epigenetic reprogramming. It is now imperative to understand which cells within the bladder are most susceptible to these environmental triggers and the epigenetic mechanisms that drive them toward tumorigenesis. By identifying common epigenetic pathways across different cellular contexts, we aspire to pinpoint actionable targets suitable for therapeutic intervention to prevent the onset of cancer.
In parallel, our research is committed to advancing our understanding of the biology of bladder tumor evolution through the analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data and the tumor microenvironment. Utilizing genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic sequencing, as well as spatial immunophenotyping data from patient samples, we aim to trace the intricate epigenetic and genetic evolutionary trajectories of bladder tumors across different stages and environments. This work will reveal the key drivers of cancer progression, immune resistance mechanisms, and potential vulnerabilities within the tumor landscape. Our pursuit of these insights promises to pave the way for more personalized and precise interventions to enhance patient outcomes.
Essential Qualifications:
- PhD or MD/PhD in cancer, developmental biology, stem cells, immunology, or genomics with a record of publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Knowledge and interest in cancer biology, immunology, and mouse models
- Technical qualifications: mouse breeding and histology, immunology, epigenetic assays, cell culture
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills with a track record of writing papers in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific meetings
- Ability to work independently and with a team
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience in bioinformatics (bulk and single-cell transcriptomics) is preferred.
Key Responsibilities:
- Study execution and data analysis.
- Manuscript preparation and presentations at national meetings.
- Communicating data and conclusions effectively in both written and oral forms.
What we offer:
- An open, supportive, and motivating academic environment with excellent training opportunities.
- The possibility to work on cutting-edge and novel translational research projects.
- A broad spectrum of methods, including bioinformatics, biochemistry, cell culture, next generation sequencing, and animal models.
- Investment in career development, fostering critical research skills, scientific writing, and editing.
- A two-year fellowship with the possibility of extension.
Our laboratory is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we welcome applicants from underrepresented groups. Apply now to join our innovative and highly collaborative team at Northwestern University and take the next step in your career in cancer research.
To apply, please submit a CV, a cover letter, and a list of publications to joshua.meeks@northwestern.edu