A fellow postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Jason M. Schenkel in the Department of Immunology, at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. The Schenkel lab is focused on understanding the immune response to both cancer and inflammation. Specifically, the Schenkel Lab is interested in understanding the role of the tissue, tumor microenvironment, and inflammatory cues in shaping CD8+ T cells differentiation and migration, how this response changes over time, and how metastatic disease alters the composition of local and systemic immune cells. The majority of this work will be carried out in pre-clinical mouse models of cancer and inflammation; however, the laboratory will extend our findings into primary human samples in the future. Candidates for this position will have the opportunity to work on sophisticated models of cancer in a positive work environment with an energized group of individuals and with ample access and mentoring by Dr. Schenkel.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1) To understand the role of the tissue and tumor microenvironment in driving T cell and leukocyte dysfunction in tumors.

2) To determine the role of time in shaping CD8 T cell transcriptional and epigenetic programs in cancer.

3) Define how inflammation and neuronal inputs affects T cell migration in the context of inflammatory insults.

4) Postdoctoral fellows will receive extensive one on one mentorship with Dr. Schenkel in order to facilitate career goals, foster independence, and to help develop writing and presentation skills.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

An individual holding a recent (within three years) Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., Sc.D., M.D., D.V.M.) in an appropriate field who is seeking a temporary appointment under the supervision of a faculty mentor, involving full-time laboratory-based research or scholarship in preparation for an academic or research career as an independent investigator. This appointment is not part of a clinical training program; individuals holding an M.D. degree or equivalent are not permitted to engage in patient care activity.

POSITION INFORMATION

MD Anderson offers full-time postdoc positions with a salary ranging from $64,000 to $76,000 (https://trainees.mdanderson.org/apply/mdaPostdoctoralFellowStipendFY24.pdf) . depending on the number of years of postgraduate experience. MD Anderson trainee compensation also includes:

Paid medical benefits (zero premium) starting on the first day for trainees who work 30 or more hours per week

Group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability coverage

Paid education, vacation, and sick leave

Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs

Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans

Employer-paid life, AD&D, and an illness-related reduced salary pay program

Health Savings Account and Dependent Care Reimbursement flexible spending accounts

Fertility benefits

State of Texas longevity pay

Extensive wellness, fitness, employee health programs, and employee resource groups

FACULTY MENTOR

Jason Schenkel, PhD