The Sabnis laboratory is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow for an R01-funded investigation into the protein translational control of a driver fusion in pediatric cancer. Dr. Sabnis is an assistant professor in the Division of Pediatric Oncology in the Department of Pediatrics, at the Mission Bay Campus of UCSF.
Sabnis Lab Focus: Our laboratory is focused on identifying new vulnerabilities in pediatric sarcomas, cancers of connective tissue, and using tumor samples and patient-derived xenograft models to test the therapeutic potential of these treatments. We use genetic and chemical screens to identify potential targets, validate the molecular mechanisms underlying their efficacy, and design preclinical trials with an eye towards rapid clinical translation of our findings.
Project: We have multiple ongoing projects targeting the PAX3-FOXO1 oncogene in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma. This fusion transcription factor that remodels the epigenetic landscape of cells to create an aggressive, lethal cancer in children and young adults. We have found new ways to throttle PAX3-FOXO1 dosage in cells, leading to tumor regressions in preclinical models. Our current aims are to identify combination therapies to bolster the impact of this approach by prolonging remissions, and to use chemical and genetic tools to better understand the molecular requirements for translational control that enable this treatment strategy.
Mentorship: This position will benefit from close mentoring from Dr. Sabnis as well as nearby PIs from the Cancer Center’s Pediatric Malignancies Program (Dr. Sweet-Cordero, Dr. Shannon, Dr. Vo). Recruited post-doctoral fellows will also help mentor technicians, medical students, and fellows who work in the lab.
We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a PhD, MD/PhD, or MD degree. At a minimum, applicants should have substantial experience in genetics and molecular biology (PCR, gene expression studies including next generation sequencing, mammalian cell culture) and biochemistry (immunoblots and/or more advanced proteomic studies). Training in oncology, bioinformatics, and/or preclinical studies (mouse or other laboratory animal experience, pharmacology) are welcomed but not required. The candidate needs to be able to work independently and in a collaborative and diverse team. Excellent organizational and written and oral communication skills is required, as is evidence of prior scientific productivity and ability to take projects to their completion. Members of underrepresented minority groups and women are strongly encouraged to apply.
Interested individuals should send a letter of interest detailing relevant experience and career goals, curriculum vitae, and the names of three references (title, phone number and email) to Dr. Sabnis at [email protected] . The position will be open until filled.