The Song Laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience and the Hollings Cancer Center at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is currently inviting applications for a motivated and talented Postdoctoral Research Fellow. The fellow will spearhead innovative research exploring the molecular mechanisms driving glioma progression, therapeutic resistance, and tumor-immune dynamics.
Job Overview and Quick Details
| Designation: | Postdoctoral Research Fellow |
| Research Group: | Song Laboratory (PI: Dr. Xiao Song) |
| Department/Center: | Department of Neuroscience / Hollings Cancer Center |
| Institution: | Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) |
| Location: | Charleston, South Carolina, United States |
| Research Focus: | Brain Tumor Biology, RNA Splicing, Glioma, Cancer Immunology, Functional Genomics |
| Remuneration: | Competitive salary based on NIH postdoctoral stipend guidelines plus university benefits |
| Application Deadline: | Open until filled (Applications reviewed on a rolling basis) |
Summary
The Song Laboratory integrates cutting-edge functional genomics, transcriptomics, molecular/cellular biology, human iPSC models, and preclinical glioma models to decipher crucial mechanisms in neuro-oncology. Supported by substantial institutional start-up packages, NIH/NINDS R21 awards, and a DoD Career Development Award, this role provides an outstanding setting for fellows aiming to build high-impact scientific discoveries and transition into independent academic or industrial careers.
Research Area & Project Directions
The fellow will have the opportunity to lead or contribute to one or more of the following key research thrusts based on their technical background and research interests:
- Functional Discovery of Alternative Splicing Dependencies in Glioma: Implementing exon-centric CRISPR knockout/activation screening approaches combined with RNA-seq and preclinical models to uncover novel splicing vulnerabilities governing glioma growth and drug resistance.
- Alternative Splicing and Sphingolipid Metabolism: Exploring how regulated alternative splicing of metabolic genes alters lipid networks, driving glioma progression, metabolic rewiring, and therapeutic susceptibility.
- Targeting RNA Splicing Regulators (e.g., PTBP1): Characterizing the role of critical splicing factors in glioma progression and intrinsic tumor immune responses, evaluating therapeutic targets via patient-derived glioma models and in vivo mouse systems.
- iPSC-Derived Microglia and Cellular Immunotherapy: Investigating phagocytosis and immune recognition of glioma cells by human iPSC-derived microglia, developing genetically engineered microglia as a platform for brain tumor immunotherapy.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Stem Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related biomedical field.
- Demonstrated track record of scientific productivity and research achievement (e.g., peer-reviewed publications).
- Strong hands-on experience and foundational knowledge in molecular and cell biology.
- Demonstrated capacity to independently design, troubleshoot, and execute laboratory experiments.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, with an aptitude for collaborative, multidisciplinary teamwork.
Preferred Qualifications (Experience in any of the following):
- RNA biology, pre-mRNA alternative splicing, or transcriptome analysis.
- CRISPR/Cas9 functional genomic screening or gene editing techniques.
- Tumor immunology, immune-oncology assays, or tumor microenvironment characterization.
- Human iPSC culture, directed differentiation, or macrophage/microglia biology.
- Multicolor flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, or preclinical animal handling (rodent brain tumor models).
- Bioinformatics pipelines, bulk/single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq), or high-throughput data analysis.
Note: Applicants are not required to possess expertise across all preferred areas; researchers with strong competence in any of these domains are encouraged to apply.
Work Environment & Benefits
MUSC is South Carolina’s premier academic medical center, home to Hollings Cancer Center (the state’s only NCI-designated cancer center). Postdoctoral fellows benefit from high-end shared core resources, interdisciplinary translational collaborations, and comprehensive career development resources including grant-writing mentorship and conference presentation opportunities. The position offers an NIH-scale stipend along with university health and retirement benefits.
Last Date for Apply
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Early application is strongly advised.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare and compile the following application documents:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) including an up-to-date list of publications and presentations.
- A Cover Letter summarizing prior research accomplishments, scientific motivations, and specific research directions of interest within the Song Lab.
- Contact details (names, affiliations, and email addresses) for 2–3 professional references.
Submit your complete application package via email directly to the Principal Investigator:
Contact Person: Dr. Xiao Song, Ph.D.
Email: songx@musc.edu
Subject Line: Postdoctoral Application – [Your Full Name]
Official Link
For additional details regarding the laboratory’s ongoing projects, visit the official announcement page: Song Lab Postdoctoral Opening.
