Postdoc Fellows (1-2): Decoding Cancer-Host interactions Full-time NEW

Postdoctoral Fellowships (1-2 Positions): Decoding the Pancreatic Cancer-Host interaction

Location: Genomics Research Center (GRC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan

The Mission

Our lab is dedicated to unraveling the systemic complexities of Pancreatic Cancer. We view malignancy not as an isolated tumor, but as a takeover of the body’s physiological networks. We are specifically investigating the metabolic crosstalk between pancreatic tumor cells and the host, focusing on how the immune system and the nervous system are co-opted to support progression.

We are seeking one to two (1-2) highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholars to lead projects at the intersection of cancer metabolism, neuro-immunology, and systemic physiology.

Who You Are (Required Expertise)

You hold a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences, Metabolism, Immunology, Neuroscience, or a related field. We are looking for researchers who are able to bridge the gaps between metabolism and systemic signaling.

• Metabolomics: Proficiency in Mass Spectrometry or NMR-based metabolic profiling and analysis.
• Systemic Interaction: Experience in studying the Immune System or the Nervous System.

Traits for Success

In addition to technical skills, we value the “soft” drivers of a successful postdoctoral tenure:

• Intellectual Independence: The ability to steer a project and pivot based on data.
• Scientific Resilience: A mindset that views technical hurdles as puzzles to be solved.
• Collaborative spirit: The ability to work across disciplines.
• Effective Storytelling: Strong writing and presentation skills for high-impact publishing.

Selected publications

• Regulation of ROS signaling by TIGAR induces cancer-modulating responses in the tumor microenvironment. Cheung EC et al. PNAS. 2024
• The role of ROS in tumour development and progression. Cheung EC, Vousden KH. Nat Rev Cancer. 2022
• Dynamic ROS Control by TIGAR Regulates the Initiation and Progression of Pancreatic Cancer. Cheung EC et al. Cancer Cell. 2020
• Opposing effects of TIGAR- and RAC1-derived ROS on Wnt-driven proliferation in the mouse intestine. Cheung EC et al. Genes & Dev. 2016

Full Bibliography: https://www.genomics.sinica.edu.tw/ecccheung

A World-Class Research Ecosystem

One of the greatest advantages of our lab is its location. Between the Genomics Research Center (GRC) and the adjacent biological/medical sciences institutes and especially the National Biotechnology Research Park (NBRP), you will have access to an unparalleled group of facilities:

1. GRC Core Facilities:

• Mass Spectrometry Core: State-of-the-art metabolomics, lipidomics, and Mass Spectrometry Imaging (MSI) to map metabolites directly in tissue sections.
• NMR Core Facility: Equipped with 600 MHz Bruker spectrometers for high-sensitivity biomolecular and metabolic studies.
• Ultra High Throughput Drug Screening: rapid screening of compounds against metabolic targets.
• Glycoscience Core: Specialized tools for investigating complex sugars.

2. National Biotechnology Research Park (NBRP) Facilities:

Located just a short walk away, these facilities bridge the gap between basic research and clinical translation:

• Taiwan Mouse Clinic (TMC): A world-class phenotyping center providing animal imaging (MRI, micro-CT, IVIS), metabolic/behavioral testing, and drug efficacy packages.
• Core Facilities for Translational Medicine: High-parameter Flow Cytometry (up to 40 colors), Single-cell analysis (10x Genomics), and a dedicated Pathology Core.
• Academia Sinica Cryo-EM Facility (ASCEM): Home to Titan Krios and Talos Arctica microscopes for high-resolution structural biology.

Academia Sinica is the most internationalized research hub in East Asia. English is the working language of our laboratory and the Genomics Research Center.

• All seminars, progress reports, and scientific communications are conducted in English.
• We provide a welcoming environment for non-Chinese speakers, with dedicated support to help international scholars settle into life in Taipei.

The Environment:

Located in the Nangang District, Academia Sinica offers a unique lifestyle:

• Intellectual Density: You are surrounded by 32 institutes, fostering an atmosphere where you can find an expert collaborator for almost any technique.
• Vibrant Location: Nangang is Taipei’s rising “New Heart,” featuring the High-Speed Rail hub, the National Biotechnology Research Park, and the modern CityLink complex for dining and shopping.
• Quality of Life: Enjoy the safety, world-class food, and efficient transport of Taipei, while being minutes away from lush mountain hiking trails.

How to Apply

We are looking to fill these positions as soon as possible. Please send your CV, a brief cover letter outlining your research experience, and contact information for three references.

Academia Sinica is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive, English-speaking environment for all scholars.

Tagged as: Life Sciences