RNA Biology | Cancer Research | RNA Translational Control
The Kovalski lab at UNC Chapel Hill is recruiting a postdoctoral research fellow to study the molecular mechanisms of post-transcriptional gene expression in health and disease. We are an enthusiastic, collaborative team dedicated to tackling outstanding questions at the interface of RNA biology and cancer biology. Several open questions in the lab include: how do RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) remodel the cellular proteome to drive oncogenic transformation? How are RBPs functionally repurposed as cells transition from a healthy to malignant state? How do RNA binding proteins coordinate selective translation of key oncogenes to enable cancer cells to rapidly adapt to stress and therapy?
The postdoctoral fellow will use cell culture models and proximity proteomics to map RBP interaction networks across cellular compartments, in combination with CLIP-sequencing, RNA structure probing, polysome-profiling, and in vivo cancer mouse models to dissect mechanisms of post-transcriptional control in normal and cancer cells.
Qualifications:
- Highly motivated individuals with a recent PhD, MD, or MD/PhD are encouraged to apply.
- Required: hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and cloning, along with a background in cancer biology or in RNA biology (RNA-binding proteins, translation, or RNA structure).
- Experience with CLIP-seq, RNA structure probing, polysome profiling, proximity proteomics, or mouse models is a plus, but training will be provided.
- Evidence of scientific accomplishment, including a first-author publication (published or in preparation), is required.
- Bioinformatics skills are highly desirable.
Research Environment:
The Kovalski lab is located in the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (LCCC), which provides an exceptionally collaborative environment at the interface of basic science and translational cancer research. Postdoctoral fellows will have access to outstanding core facilities supporting genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, flow cytometry, and advanced imaging, as well as rich professional training and mentorship opportunities across UNC-Chapel Hill’s broader research community.
This position is supported by internal UNC funding and a grant from the NIH National Cancer Institute. Salary is commensurate with experience and follows NIH guidelines for postdoctoral researchers. All lab members are expected to apply for fellowships as part of their training.
How to apply:
Please send a one-page cover letter describing how your background connects to our work and a question you would want to pursue, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three referees to Dr. Joanna Kovalski via email: [email protected] or apply online https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/318679.
