Postdoctoral Fellow Position – Corina Antal Lab, University of California at San Diego

Posted on February 4th, 2026

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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