Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

The laboratory of Dr. Meng Zhang at Emory University School of Medicine and Winship Cancer Institute is looking for a postdoctoral scholar to join our team.

The Zhang lab focuses on studying the alterations of RNA transcription, processing, and translation in tumor cells, with the dual goals of both understanding the biology of cancer progression and therapy resistance and identifying potential therapeutic targets to overcome resistance. The lab will integrate a variety of research approaches, including clinical genomics, CRISPR-based functional genomics, and molecular biology, to systematically investigate RNA biology in cancer initiation, progression, and resistance, leading to the discovery of novel therapeutic strategies for patients. 

The ongoing research directions of the Zhang lab include: 1) Investigation of microproteins’ (previously understudied small proteins encoded through non-canonical translation) role and regulation in aggressive prostate cancer; 2) Deciphering the epigenetic mechanisms of oncogenic gene upregulation driven by non-canonical promoters; 3) Discovery of novel druggable regulators of neuroendocrine surface protein target DLL3. 

Dr. Zhang received her Ph.D. in Cell Biology from Yale University and her M.S. in Computer Science from Stanford University. She finished her postdoctoral training at the University of California, San Francisco, and has a strong and unique multi-disciplinary research background across both molecular and computational biology. Dr. Zhang has published first- and co-author papers in high-profile journals including Nature Cell Biology, Genes & Development, Nature Genetics, Nature Communications, Cancer Research, etc. (https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=xsFFdvIAAAAJ&hl=en). Her research focuses on RNA biology in development and cancer, and aims to identify regulatory mechanisms and novel RNA and protein species with translational potential. 

If you are an aspiring academic scientist looking to expand your skills and knowledge base in translational cancer research and to boost your sfcientific career, joining our team could be the perfect opportunity! Opportunities for career growth and authorship should be expected within our lab. You will have the chance to work directly with Dr. Zhang, receive mentorship and training in both research techniques and professional development, lead independent projects, and engage in multidisciplinary collaborations. In addition, you will be encouraged to learn the widely desirable bioinformatics skills under the guidance of Dr. Zhang. We have received generous start-up funds and value a collaborative and supportive lab culture. 

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career.
• The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc.
• Designs and evaluates experiments.
• Develops new ideas that promote current research.
• Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
• May be responsible for operation of specific equipment.
• May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff.
• Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee.
• The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available.
• Appointments cannot exceed five years.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead independent scientific projects.
• Participate in paper and grant writing, and internal and external presentations.
• Maintain full and clear records of experimental data and code.
• Mentor junior scientists.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field.

• Applicants must have or will obtain a PhD in one of these disciplines: molecular biology, cancer biology, cell biology, genetics, computational biology, or other related fields.

• Applicants must have a demonstrated publication track record.

• Applicants should have strong communication/organization skills and be detail-oriented.

• Highly motivated individual who thinks independently but also enjoys working in a dynamic, collaborative, multidisciplinary team.

• Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills.
• The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues.
• Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in RNA biology and/or epigenetics
• Experience with CRISPR screening and/or gene editing
• Experience with cancer data analysis and/or analyzing (epi)genomic sequencing data

**Please kindly attach a cover letter with your CV. 

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week's advance notice is preferred.