Postdoctoral Fellow Position in DNA Damage Response, Radiation Biology, and Immunotherapy

Postdoctoral Fellow Opportunity At Mayo Clinic Cancer Center

Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

The Callaghan/Mutter/Lou Laboratory at world-renowned Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and Novel Therapeutics and Therapeutic Modalities Program is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our dynamic team. Our research focuses on DNA Damage Response and Radiation Biology for cancer therapy, particularly their interplay with anti-tumor immunity. This opportunity is centered on advancing treatments for rectal cancer using particle beam radiotherapy, DNA repair inhibitors, and immunotherapy.

Our lab is a highly collaborative and innovative research environment led by experts in the field:

• Dr. Zhenkun Lou A world leader in DNA damage biology, with multiple NIH-funded grants and high-impact publications.
• Dr. Cameron Callaghan & Dr. Robert Mutter Physician-scientists specializing in Radiation Oncology, with expertise in translational clinical trials and pre-clinical mechanistic research.

We work alongside top cancer biologists, clinicians, and global investigators to push the boundaries of radiation and DNA damage/repair mechanisms in cancer therapy. Some of the key questions we explore include:

• How can rectal cancer be sensitized to radiotherapy while minimizing normal tissue toxicity?
• What are the unique DNA damage responses induced by high-LET radiation (e.g., Bragg Peak protons, alpha particles, carbon ions)?
• How can high-LET radiation and DNA repair inhibitors enhance the response of proficient Mismatch Repair (pMMR) rectal cancer to immunotherapy?

As a Postdoctoral Fellow, you will spearhead cutting-edge projects focusing on novel radiation techniques, small molecule radiosensitizers, and immunotherapy for rectal cancer. Your research will involve:

• State-of-the-art experimental techniques, including BP proton irradiation in murine tumor models, in vitro alpha particle irradiation, and advanced molecular biology methods.
• Multi-omics and imaging approaches, such as multiplexed immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, RNA-seq, whole-exome sequencing (WES), and spatialomics in tumor models and patient-derived tissues.
• Investigating how high-LET radiation uniquely damages cancer cells, leading to cancer-specific radiosensitization and enhanced immunotherapy responses.

Joining the Callaghan/Mutter/Lou Lab means becoming part of an environment that nurtures scientific growth and career development. We offer:

• Access to world-class resources, mentorship, and training
• Opportunities to present at major conferences and collaborate globally
• A supportive environment where you can mentor and be mentored, shaping the future of cancer research

We thrive on teamwork, diversity, and innovation. Expect a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere, with regular lab meetings, social events, and a shared commitment to advancing cancer research.

Explore some of our latest publications:

• Mol Cell 2023
• Nat Cancer 2022
• Mol Cell 2023
• Nat Commun 2020
• Drug Resist Updat 2024
• Cancer Res 2020
• Mol Cancer Ther 2024
• Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2022

If you're ready to make a significant impact in radiation oncology and cancer biology, we encourage you to apply. You may also contact Dr. Cameron Callaghan directly at callaghan.cameron@mayo.edu.

We seek candidates with a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Radiobiology, DNA Damage/Repair, Immunology, or a related field. The most important qualities we value are: a passion for scientific discovery, strong problem-solving skills, and independence and drive for excellence.

Exempt

$64,079 - $74,963 / year; Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.

Yes

Full Time

80

No

Each Mayo Clinic location is a special place where our employees thrive in both their work and personal lives. Learn more about what each unique Mayo Clinic campus has to offer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status.