PhD Student / Postdoctoral Fellow / Researcher / Scientist
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Cell Biology and Cancer Genetics Full-time
The Ly Laboratory at UT Southwestern Medical Center (PI: Peter Ly) seeks to recruit one or more postdoctoral fellows to study how cell cycle defects drive genome rearrangements in cancer. Our laboratory is interested in the mechanisms that give rise to genomic instability and chromosomal alterations in the context of human health and disease. We are currently interrogating the factors that shape the chaotic mutational landscape of cancer genomes, including the contributions from cell cycle regulation defects, chromosome segregation errors during cell division, and inaccurate DNA double-strand break repair pathways. We are particularly interested in the cellular and genetic basis of a diverse spectrum of genomic rearrangement types, including a class of complex and localized alterations known as chromothripsis. These rearrangements arise from the catastrophic fragmentation of individual chromosomes encapsulated into aberrant cellular structures called micronuclei, followed by the reassembly of broken DNA fragments in random order. Chromothripsis exemplifies a rapid mutational process in which tens to hundreds of genetic lesions can be generated within a few cell cycles.
Our research program employs a number of cutting-edge approaches bridging cell biology and genetics, including CRISPR-mediated genome editing, high-resolution live-cell microscopy, molecular cytogenetics, and whole-genome DNA sequencing. We also strive to create a supportive, diverse, and inclusive laboratory environment aimed at offering exceptional training and career development opportunities for fellows and students.
Candidates are invited to submit a CV with the contact information for 3 references and a cover letter describing research interests and career goals. Individuals with a strong background in cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, microscopy, cytogenetics, and/or computational genomics are encouraged to apply, although we welcome any area of expertise. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant scientific area before starting the position and show significant promise for leading an independent research project, including outstanding publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or pre-prints. Please direct all applications and inquiries via email to Dr. Peter Ly (peter.ly@utsouthwestern.edu).