RESEARCH INVESTIGATOR

Research Investigator

The Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Michigan seeks an accomplished Research Investigator to provide scientific leadership within a translational cancer biology research program focused on molecular mechanisms of therapeutic resistance and the development of novel targeted cancer therapies. The successful candidate will lead innovative laboratory research investigating signaling pathways, targeted protein degradation, radiation sensitization, and precision oncology approaches designed to improve outcomes for patients with solid tumors.

Working under the general direction of the Principal Investigator while exercising substantial scientific independence, the Research Investigator will design and direct complex experimental studies, develop novel therapeutic strategies, mentor laboratory personnel, contribute to grant development, publish in high-impact scientific journals, and facilitate translation of laboratory discoveries toward clinical application.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific leadership for independent and collaborative research projects in molecular and cellular cancer biology.
• Design, execute, troubleshoot, and interpret sophisticated laboratory experiments investigating tumor biology, DNA damage response, radiation biology, targeted therapeutics, and mechanisms of therapeutic resistance.
• Develop novel experimental models to evaluate targeted protein degradation, receptor signaling, biomarker discovery, and combination therapies.
• Apply advanced techniques including molecular cloning, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, mammalian cell culture, protein biochemistry, live-cell imaging, flow cytometry, immunoblotting, immunoprecipitation, microscopy, qPCR, and animal tumor models.
• Lead translational studies integrating laboratory discoveries with clinically relevant cancer models.
• Analyze and interpret complex experimental data using appropriate statistical methods and bioinformatics tools.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals and present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
• Contribute to the preparation of grant applications, progress reports, invention disclosures, and patent applications.
• Mentor graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research staff, and laboratory trainees.
• Oversee laboratory operations, including project management, protocol development, regulatory compliance, budgeting, equipment oversight, and procurement.
• Foster collaborations with investigators across basic science, translational research, and clinical departments.
• Maintain compliance with institutional, federal, and laboratory safety regulations.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of five years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in cancer biology or translational oncology.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular and cellular biology techniques relevant to cancer research.
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications in high-impact scientific journals.
• Experience designing and independently leading complex research projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor junior scientists and collaborate within multidisciplinary research teams.
• Expertise in EGFR biology, receptor signaling, targeted protein degradation, therapeutic resistance, radiation biology, DNA damage response, and precision oncology.
• Experience with xenograft and preclinical animal models.
• Experience with CRISPR genome engineering and advanced molecular biology techniques.
• Track record of invention disclosures, patents, or technology commercialization.
• Experience preparing grant applications and securing extramural research funding.
• Experience working in an academic medical center and collaborating with clinician-scientists.
• Familiarity with translational drug development and biomarker discovery.

Desired Competencies

• Scientific creativity and innovation.
• Independent problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent research projects.
• Commitment to scientific rigor, reproducibility, and collaborative research.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment.

Additional Information

This is a grant-funded research position within an established cancer biology laboratory. The position does not include independent institutional research funding but offers the opportunity to contribute to impactful translational cancer research within a collaborative academic environment.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.