What are the responsibilities and job description for the Post-Doctoral Research Fellow - HBV Biomarkers and Liquid Biopsy position at Mass General Physicians Organization?
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Job Summary
Institution: Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Harvard Medical SchoolDepartment: Medicine - Gastroenterology / Hepatology
A Postdoctoral Research Fellow position is available at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School to support a research project focused on the development and clinical validation of blood-based biomarkers for early detection and monitoring of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
This project involves analysis of tumor-derived HBV-host junction sequences (HBV-JS) using next-generation sequencing (NGS), quantitative PCR (qPCR), and integration of molecular data with clinical and imaging datasets. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Ray Chung and Dr. Doan Dao, investigators at MGH and collaborate with external partners, including the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute (BSBI), PA, USA.
This role offers a unique opportunity to engage in translational research spanning computational biology, molecular diagnostics, and clinical data integration.
Key Responsibilities:
*Perform bioinformatic and statistical analyses of NGS data, including detection and characterization of HBV-host junction sequences (HBV-JS)
*Develop and maintain computational pipelines for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and viral genomic analysis
*Integrate genomic, clinical, and imaging datasets to support biomarker development and validation
*Contribute to study design, data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and grant reporting
*Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across MGH and partner institutions
Wet Lab Responsibilities (optional):
*Participate in molecular laboratory activities, including DNA extraction, qPCR, and NGS library preparation, as appropriate
*Support assay optimization and validation efforts in collaboration with BSBI and MGH laboratories
*Gain exposure to experimental workflows supporting translational biomarker development
Qualifications
Education:
PhD, MD, or equivalent in bioinformatics, computational biology, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field
Experience in one or more of the following
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis
Bioinformatics or computational biology
Cancer genomics, virology, or molecular diagnostics
Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R, or equivalent
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in liquid biopsy, circulating DNA analysis, or viral genomics
Familiarity with clinical datasets and translational research
Experience with molecular biology techniques (PCR, sequencing)
Interest in bridging computational and experimental approaches
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $70,000-$71,750.
Salary will be commensurate with experience and in accordance with Mass General Brigham/Harvard Medical School postdoctoral salary guidelines.
A comprehensive benefits package is available through Mass General Brigham.
Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship is available for qualified candidates. International applicants are encouraged to apply.
Training and Career Development
The fellow will receive mentorship in:
Translational biomarker development
Clinical research integration
Grant writing and scientific communication
We're excited to learn more about you! To apply for this position, please email your CV and cover letter directly to the contacts below. Please do not apply through this link.
Raymond Chung, MD Chung.Raymond@mgh.harvard.edu
Doan Dao, MD dydao@mgh.harvard.edu
Additional Job Details (if applicable)
Remote Type
Work Location
EEO Statement:
At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership "looks like" by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.
Massachusetts General Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. Applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged.
Salary : $70,000 - $71,750