A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Corina Antal at the University of California, San Diego (https://pharmacology.ucsd.edu/faculty/department-faculty1/corina-antal.html).
Research Overview
The Antal Lab investigates how RNA processing interfaces with cell signaling pathways to drive cancer progression, with a particular focus on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and triple-negative breast cancer. Our research centers on understanding how dysregulation of RNA-binding proteins promotes tumor plasticity, stress adaptation, and malignancy. We employ a multidisciplinary approach that integrates cellular, molecular, and genetic methodologies with high-throughput CRISPR and DNA base-editing screens, computational analyses, and mouse models of cancer.
Available Projects
The postdoctoral fellow will have the opportunity to lead one of two exciting research directions:
- Dysregulation of RNA-Protein Interactions in Cancer
Develop and apply novel methodologies to investigate how changes in RNA-protein interactions contribute to cellular adaptation and tumor progression. - Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer Using RNA Biomarkers
Identify and characterize novel RNA-based biomarkers with translational potential for early cancer detection.
Required Qualifications
- PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field
- Strong background and experience in RNA biology
- Demonstrated productivity, including first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Ability to conduct independent research while working effectively in a collaborative environment
- Strong work ethic and meticulous attention to experimental design and record keeping
Preferred Qualifications
- Bioinformatic skills
- · Experience working with mouse models
Mentorship and Career Development
The Antal Lab is committed to hands-on mentoring tailored to support successful transitions to academic or industry positions, aligned with the fellow’s evolving career interests. This position is ideal for candidates seeking direct mentorship from a young principal investigator, while benefiting from strong collaborative support within UC San Diego’s research community.
Selected Recent Publications
- Tankka et al. Integrative CRISPR Screening and RNA Analyses Discover an Essential Role for PUF60 Interactions with 3′ Splice Sites in Cancer Progression. Cancer Research. 2025.
- Antal et al. A super-enhancer regulated RNA-binding protein cascade drives pancreatic cancer. Nature Communications. 2023.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following to [email protected]:
- A cover letter describing scientific achievements, research interests, and career goals
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact information for two references
