Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Breast Cancer Metastasis and Tumor Microenvironment
Explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms of breast cancer invasion and metastasis with a focus on EZH2 signaling and tumor microenvironment interactions.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with a PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, or related fields, seeking to specialize in breast cancer metastasis and tumor microenvironment research with hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and advanced experimental techniques.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at the University of Michigan’s Department of Pathology offers an opportunity to investigate the mechanisms driving breast cancer metastasis, with a specific focus on EZH2 signaling and interactions among tumor, stromal, and immune cells. Led by Dr. Celina Kleer, the research will combine cellular and molecular biology with advanced mouse tumor models and high-throughput spatial methods. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge studies while receiving mentorship in experimental design, scientific writing, and career development. The role emphasizes independence, collaboration, and mentorship of junior researchers, making it ideal for those aiming to develop an independent scientific profile.
What you'll do
- Design, conduct, analyze, and troubleshoot independent studies on EZH2 and related protein signaling in breast cancer invasion and metastasis.
- Perform cellular and molecular biology experiments, including mammalian cell culture, transductions, immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry, and functional assays.
- Develop and implement mouse mammary tumor and metastasis models, utilizing high-throughput spatial methods.
- Review and synthesize relevant literature, maintain detailed experimental records, and interpret findings for publication.
- Prepare abstracts, manuscripts, presentations, and contributions to grant applications under mentorship.
- Collaborate with laboratory members and mentor undergraduate researchers to foster interdisciplinary research.
- Support laboratory operations, including protocol development, reagent management, and research compliance.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent doctoral degree in cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, pathology, or a related field.
Language: English (proficiency required for scientific communication and collaboration)
Instruction: English
- Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., transductions, immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry, western blot, qRT-PCR).
- Ability to independently design, execute, analyze, and document experiments.
- Demonstrated scholarly achievement through publications, presentations, awards, or significant research contributions.
- Strong written and oral scientific communication skills.
- Interest or prior experience in mentoring undergraduate students.
- Doctoral degree (PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent) in a relevant field by the start date.
- No explicit nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-05
Applicants must submit a curriculum vitae, a cover letter detailing research experience, technical skills, interest in the position, and career goals, contact information for three professional references, and up to three representative publications or manuscripts. Applications are reviewed until the deadline.
- CV
- Cover letter describing research experience, technical skills, interest in the position, and career goals
- Contact information for three professional references
- Up to three representative publications or manuscripts
Contact
Celina Kleer· Principal Investigator
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