Description
A postdoctoral fellowship is being offered in the Johnston Laboratory at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where a multidisciplinary approach is being employed to advance microbial cell therapies (MCTs) for the treatment of cancer. The lab is composed of microbiologists, synthetic biologists, and bioengineers focused on the genetic modification of tumor-colonizing microbes to create therapeutic agents capable of delivering payloads directly within the tumor microenvironment. The postdoctoral fellow will be expected to contribute to the development of genetic toolkits for engineering non-model bacterial species. These efforts include the design and refinement of transformation systems, selection and counterselection strategies, modular expression constructs, and payload modules designed for immune modulation. Engineering strategies will be guided by microbiome analyses and validated using both in vitro platforms and preclinical tumor models.
Responsibilities
Learning Objectives
Throughout the appointment, advanced techniques in bacterial genetic engineering will be applied and further developed. Emphasis will be placed on constructing and optimizing:
- Modular gene expression systems
- Genome editing tools (e.g., recombineering, CRISPR-based systems)
- Transformation protocols suited for non-model or fastidious bacteria
The fellow will gain direct experience in applying engineered microbial strains in preclinical models of solid tumors to assess colonization efficiency, payload release, and therapeutic outcomes. Exposure to translational project design, grant writing, junior trainee mentorship, and collaborative leadership will also be provided, equipping the fellow for career progression in either academic or industry-focused research in synthetic biology and cancer immunotherapy.
Qualification
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants are required to hold a PhD in microbiology, molecular biology, bioengineering, synthetic biology, or a related discipline.
Candidates will be considered highly competitive if they have demonstrated:
- Proficiency in bacterial genome engineering, including cloning, allelic exchange, recombineering, and CRISPR tool application
- Practical knowledge of microbial transformation techniques (e.g., conjugation, electroporation)
- Familiarity with non-model bacterial systems or fastidious organisms
- Experience with protein expression and purification, particularly for functional testing of microbial payloads
- Understanding of microbial physiology, plasmid architecture, and antibiotic resistance/counterselection methods
- Prior exposure to in vivo modeling, synthetic biology frameworks, or translational cancer research (preferred but not required)
Applicants should possess strong organizational capabilities, scientific precision, and a collaborative mindset, while also being able to operate independently.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates should prepare the following materials:
- A Cover Letter detailing relevant research experiences, specific technical skills, notable accomplishments, and motivation for applying
- A current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact information for three professional references
These documents must be submitted via email to Dr. Christopher Johnston at:
Email: cdjohnston@mdanderson.org
Please use the subject line: "MCT Postdoctoral Fellow – Application – [Your Name]"
Position Details & Benefits
Duration: Full-time postdoctoral appointment
Salary: Between $64,000 – USD 76,000, depending on post-PhD experience
Benefits: Comprehensive package including medical and dental insurance, paid time off, tuition assistance, access to training programs, and employee recognition opportunities
The position will remain open until filled, with immediate consideration given to early applications.
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