A Research fellowship is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Verline Justilien to conduct funded research on cancer initiation, pathological progression and biomarker discovery at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida.

The Justilien laboratory (https://www.mayo.edu/research/labs/molecular-mechanisms-tumorigenesis/overview) is defining critical oncogenic drivers of lung and pancreas tumorigenesis and their associated oncogenic signaling pathways to improve understanding of lung and pancreas cancer initiation and pathological progression. This knowledge will enable identification of markers for early detection and diagnosis of lung and pancreatic cancer and will facilitate the design of innovative treatment strategies. The laboratory uses a combination of clinical tumor specimens, genomic/bioinformatic analysis, 2D and 3D cell-based studies, targeted therapeutics and novel genetically-engineered mouse models.

The responsibilities of the Research Fellow include: 

• Participation in developing and testing of hypotheses including the design, implementation, execution of research studies and troubleshooting of experimental issues.
• Development of research ideas, projects and protocols to be submitted for new grant applications.
• Presentation of research findings orally and/or as poster.
• Writing of manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team, contributing to a productive and innovative research environment

Candidates who are highly self-motivated and organized with a strong research background in cell signaling, cancer biology, and/or molecular cell biology are encouraged to apply. Experience in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics analyses is also desirable. Ph.D preferred. A track record in abstract preparation, conference presentation, and/or peer-reviewed publication is required. We provide a supportive environment, and we are committed to offering individualized training, mentoring, and career development opportunities. Mayo Clinic offers a competitive stipend and a generous fringe benefit package.

A Research Fellow at Mayo Clinic is a temporary position intended to provide training and education in research. Individuals will train in the research program of a Mayo Clinic principal investigator. Qualified individuals will demonstrate the potential for research as evidenced by their training and peer-reviewed publications and should become competitive for national research grants. Proof of English proficiency is required for J-1 Short-Term Scholars, Research Scholars, Professors, Specialists, and Student Interns sponsored by Mayo Clinic.

Must have a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in cell signaling, cancer biology, and/or molecular cell biology. h.D. preferred. A track record in abstract preparation, conference presentation, and/or peer-reviewed publication is required. 

Research Fellow is appropriate for individuals who have completed no more than one prior postdoctoral fellowship, at Mayo Clinic or elsewhere.

Interested candidates should send their curriculum vitae, a statement of research experience and interests, and contact information for three references to: Verline Justilien, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center. E-mail: Justilien.verline@mayo.edu.