Postdoctoral Fellow Position in DNA Damage Response, Radiation Biology, and Immunotherapy

Mayo Clinic.com

Office

Rochester, MN, United States

Full Time

Mayo Clinic Cancer Center – Callaghan/Mutter/Lou Laboratory

The Callaghan/Mutter/Lou Laboratory at world-renowned Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and Novel Therapeutics and Therapeutic Modalities Program is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our dynamic team. Our research focuses on DNA Damage Response and Radiation Biology for cancer therapy, particularly their interplay with anti-tumor immunity. This opportunity is centered on advancing treatments for rectal cancer using particle beam radiotherapy, DNA repair inhibitors, and immunotherapy.

Who We Are

Our lab is a highly collaborative and innovative research environment led by experts in the field:

Dr. Zhenkun Lou – A world leader in DNA damage biology, with multiple NIH-funded grants and high-impact publications.
Dr. Cameron Callaghan & Dr. Robert Mutter – Physician-scientists specializing in Radiation Oncology, with expertise in translational clinical trials and pre-clinical mechanistic research.

We work alongside top cancer biologists, clinicians, and global investigators to push the boundaries of radiation and DNA damage/repair mechanisms in cancer therapy. Some of the key questions we explore include:

How can rectal cancer be sensitized to radiotherapy while minimizing normal tissue toxicity?
What are the unique DNA damage responses induced by high-LET radiation (e.g., Bragg Peak protons, alpha particles, carbon ions)?
How can high-LET radiation and DNA repair inhibitors enhance the response of proficient Mismatch Repair (pMMR) rectal cancer to immunotherapy?

Your Role

As a Postdoctoral Fellow, you will spearhead cutting-edge projects focusing on novel radiation techniques, small molecule radiosensitizers, and immunotherapy for rectal cancer. Your research will involve:

State-of-the-art experimental techniques, including BP proton irradiation in murine tumor models, in vitro alpha particle irradiation, and advanced molecular biology methods.
Multi-omics and imaging approaches, such as multiplexed immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, RNA-seq, whole-exome sequencing (WES), and spatialomics in tumor models and patient-derived tissues.
Investigating how high-LET radiation uniquely damages cancer cells, leading to cancer-specific radiosensitization and enhanced immunotherapy responses.

Why Join Us?

Joining the Callaghan/Mutter/Lou Lab means becoming part of an environment that nurtures scientific growth and career development. We offer:

Access to world-class resources, mentorship, and training
Opportunities to present at major conferences and collaborate globally
A supportive environment where you can mentor and be mentored, shaping the future of cancer research

Lab Culture

We thrive on teamwork, diversity, and innovation. Expect a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere, with regular lab meetings, social events, and a shared commitment to advancing cancer research.

Our Recent Work

Explore some of our latest publications:

If you’re ready to make a significant impact in radiation oncology and cancer biology, we encourage you to apply. You may also contact Dr. Cameron Callaghan directly at callaghan.cameron@mayo.edu

We seek candidates with a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Radiobiology, DNA Damage/Repair, Immunology, or a related field. The most important qualities we value are:

A passion for scientific discovery
Strong problem-solving skills
Independence and drive for excellence

Why Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic is top-ranked in more specialties than any other care provider according to U.S. News & World Report. As we work together to put the needs of the patient first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans – to take care of you and your family, now and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities at every turn, you can build a long, successful career with Mayo Clinic.

Benefits Highlights

Medical: Multiple plan options.
Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.