The Souroullas Lab studies the role of chromatin dynamics during cancer development, with a specific focus on hematopoietic (lymphoid) malignancies and melanoma. Recent next-generation sequencing studies have highlighted the role that epigenetic modifiers play in cancer, however, our understanding of these mechanisms remains quite rudimentary. We have recently demonstrated the oncogenic and neomorphic activity of mutations in the EZH2 gene, part of a protein complex which mediates histone methylation and regulates gene expression (Souroullas et. al., Nature Medicine, 2016). The underlying mechanisms of the oncogenic activity of these mutations, however, remain unresolved. Research opportunities are therefore available for highly motivated individuals with an interest in cancer genetics and/or epigenetics. Projects include, but are not limited to, the study of genetic interactions using mouse models, molecular analysis of epigenetic crosstalk, and the effects of these mutations on the tumor immune response. Investigation of these studies involves the use of state-of-the-art mouse genetics, functional genomics, next-generation sequencing, bioinformatics, molecular biology, and tumor biology and hematopoiesis.

For additional information about our lab, please visit our website at: https://sites.wustl.edu/souroullaslab

The appointment is viewed as a training or transitional period preparatory to an academic, industrial, governmental, or other full-time research or teaching career. Used when the appointee performs specific services on a grant or contract in exchange for compensation. The appointment is of limited duration generally, not to exceed five years cumulatively unless there are extenuating circumstances.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Manages their own project, which should lead to several first author publications.
• Develops proficiency in their chosen scientific discipline/field.
• Develops proficiency in their technical skills.
• Develops proficiency in their ancillary skills, e.g. writing, public speaking, networking, critical evaluation of scientific documents, etc.
• Presents scientific work both inside and outside the University.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers on research.
• Assists in the design of research experiments.
• Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
• Conscientious discharge of his/her research responsibilities.
• Maintain conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintain compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Engage in open and timely discussion with his/her mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

• A recent Ph.D or M.D/Ph.D in the biomedical sciences, and a record of productive research with at least one first author publication in a peer reviewed journal.

• Prior experience with mouse models and bioinformatics analysis is a plus but not required.
• Demonstrated ability to perform independent research in biomedical sciences and published results in peer reviewed journals.