Employer: University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Location: Houston, Texas
Salary: Competitive ($64,000–$76,000/year, commensurate with experience)
Closing Date: June 13, 2025
The Di Zhao Lab at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow position in the Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology. We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong background in cancer research, molecular biology, immunology, or tumor microenvironment studies.
This is an opportunity to join a collaborative and innovative research team focused on understanding the genetic and immunological drivers of prostate cancer progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance.
About the Principal Investigator
Dr. Di Zhao is an Assistant Professor whose research has been published in leading journals including Nature, Cancer Cell, JCI, Cancer Discovery, Science Translational Medicine, Nature Communications, and Cancer Research. Her lab employs advanced techniques such as genetically engineered mouse models and single-cell multi-omics to dissect cancer biology and identify novel therapeutic targets.
Dr. Zhao has received multiple awards and grants, including the NIH K99/R00 Award, CPRIT Recruitment Award, NIH/NCI R01s, Prostate Cancer Foundation Challenge Award, and the DoD Prostate Cancer Idea Development Award. In 2025, she was selected as a NextGen Star at the AACR Annual Meeting.
More information:
Research Focus
The fellow will work on projects exploring:
- Genetic events driving prostate cancer development, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance
- Crosstalk between tumor cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and metastatic niche
- Development of biomarker-driven immunotherapies and combinatorial strategies for precision medicine
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or a related field
- Strong publication record in relevant areas
- Experience in tumor microenvironment studies, oncogenic signaling, immunology, or computational biology is preferred
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Commitment to scientific rigor and professional growth
Position Benefits
This full-time postdoctoral appointment includes:
- Annual salary between $64,000 and $76,000, based on experience
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and retirement plans
- Paid time off and support for professional development
- Access to top-tier research resources at a leading cancer research institution
Application Instructions
Applicants should submit the following materials to Dr. Di Zhao at dzhao2@mdanderson.org:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter describing research interests and long-term goals
- Names and contact information for three references
Mailing Address:
Dr. Di Zhao
Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
6565 MD Anderson Blvd, Unit 1052
Houston, TX 77030
Application Deadline: June 13, 2025
Start Date: Flexible, in 2025
Advance your career in cancer research at one of the world’s leading institutions. We welcome applicants who are passionate about making meaningful scientific contributions in a supportive and high-impact research environment.
