Post-Doctoral Research Fellow - Cheung Lab

A Post-Doctoral Research Fellow position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Kevin Cheung at Fred Hutch Cancer Center.

Our lab focuses on finding new ways to prevent and treat breast cancer metastases. We explore how groups of tumor cells move together—known as collective cell migration—by combining insights from cell biology, biochemistry, and ecology. By studying these interactions and the surrounding microenvironments, we’ve uncovered key factors driving metastasis and therapy resistance.

Our goal is to turn these discoveries into targeted treatments that can move into early clinical trials. Recent work from our lab has identified collective interfaces between tumor cells through which neighboring cells exchange signals to proliferate and metastasize (Cheung and Ewald. Science 2016; Yamamoto et al. PNAS 2023; and Wrenn et al. Cell 2020). Major areas of funded investigation include defining the physical and biochemical properties of these interfaces; the signaling complexes that reside there; and how collective signaling instigates resistance to breast cancer therapy.

We are seeking highly motivated postdoc candidates interested in finding the answers to these questions. Applicants will study how breast tumor cells communicate using organoid models, synthetic biology, and microscopy to find ways to block their signals therapeutically. We are looking for rigorous scientists who love doing experiments, work well in a team, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will lead a core funded project in our laboratory.

Minimum qualifications:

• PhD degree.
• Minimum of two first-author publications
• Strong skills in cell culture and molecular biology.
• Must work well independently and in a team.

Preferred qualifications:

• Interdisciplinary research training or industry experience.
• Experience in antibody development or small molecule screening.
• Background in cell signaling and cancer genetics.
• Proficiency in organoid models and microscopy.