Job Description

POSTDOCTORAL POSITION

Position Objective. The Department of Pathology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral scholar to conduct research in the laboratory of Dr. Chen Zhao. The Zhao lab studies the mechanisms that regulate the self-renewal of hematopoietic stem cells and leukemia stem cells. This position will investigate the mechanisms underlying sensitivity or resistance of acute myeloid leukemia cells to current immunochemotherapy.

The applicant must have a PhD or MD/PhD degree in Immunology and/or Molecular/Cell Biology with a record of productivity evidenced by scholarly publications.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

As a Postdoctoral Scholar, the candidate is expected to:

1. Design, plan, and conduct experiments under the supervision of the PI to investigate the mechanisms by which acute myeloid leukemia (AML) stem cells resist immunochemotherapy and the role of leukemia stem cell senescence in this process (55%).
2. Perform rodent experiments and husbandry including bone marrow chimeras, breeding, genotyping and maintain an accurate animal database (15%).
3. Rigorously document experimental results and present results in laboratory meetings, departmental seminars and scientific conferences (10%).
4. Prepare manuscripts and contribute preliminary data for grant proposals (10%).
5. Work closely with other lab members to ensure projects are being completed according to the research plan and in organizing laboratory space and supplies (5%).
6. Work with PI to submit and manage compliance with policies, procedures and regulations of the Animal Resource Center, IACUC, lab safety policy, and other applicable regulatory guidelines for which essential training will be provided (5%).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILIES

Train and oversee rotation students and other research staff in the lab.

In compliance with the City of Cleveland’s Pay Transparency Ordinance (effective October 27, 2025), the annual starting base salary range for this position is $55,000 - $63,480. CWRU considers factors such as (but not limited to) the specific grant funding and the terms of the research grant when extending an offer. Postdocs receive individual and family healthcare benefits, life insurance, and employee assistance.

Qualifications

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

PhD in Immunology or biomedical sciences with hands-on experience in immunology, molecular cell biology and animal work.

YEARS OF RELEVANT EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

PhD with 1-4 years of postdoctoral experience.

DESIRABLE SKILLS:

1. Experience in cell culture of primary mouse and human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.
2. Experience in immunology techniques notably multi-panel flow cytometry.
3. Experience in molecular cloning, molecular & cell biology techniques.
4. Experience with handling and working on animal model experiments.
5. Ability to work independently after essential training has been provided.
6. Effective oral and written communication skills.
7. Flexibility in work schedule to complete necessary study within deadlines.

Application Instructions

Qualified candidates should apply in interfolio and should upload their CV, cover letter, and three professional references.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Case Western Reserve University is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are protected under federal and state laws and university policy from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, protected veteran status, disability, age and genetic information.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

Case Western Reserve University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act regarding reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Equity by phone at 216.368.3066 or by email at equity@case.edu. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-by-case basis.