Postdoctoral Fellow for Microbiome and Brain Tumor Research

Summary

The laboratory of Dr. Golnaz Morad at the H. Lee Moffit Cancer Center — an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and one of the nation’s top-ranked cancer research institutes — is recruiting a driven and scientifically ambitious Postdoctoral Fellow to conduct and contribute to cutting-edge basic and translational research at the intersection of metastasis dormancy, neuro-oncology, and microbiome research.

The Morad lab is interested in understanding host-microbe interactions in the context of brain tumors, with a particular focus on brain metastasis and metastatic dormancy.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in the novel and rapidly evolving field of Neuro-microbiome research, with ample opportunities for high-impact discoveries. The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, with active partnerships spanning multiple institutions, providing valuable opportunities to advance their scientific and collaborative skills and expand their scientific network.

Position Highlights

• Well-funded research program with active federal grants, ensuring robust resources for ambitious science.
• Supportive and collaborative lab culture dedicated to your growth as a scientist.
• Dedicated support and training for grant applications and conference presentations, and preparation for independent academic or industry careers.
• Access to state-of-the-art core facilities and technologies to support basic and translational research.
• Unique opportunities for translational research within Moffitt’s integrated environment, where cutting-edge patient care and scientific discovery are deeply intertwined.
• Outstanding mentorship from expert faculty at the institution with wide-ranging funded research programs including T32 Training Grants.
  
  

The Ideal Candidate

• Highly motivated to learn new concepts and techniques.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively.
• Committed to producing high-quality, high-impact research and contributing to publications and grant proposals.
• Foundational knowledge in one or more of the following: metastasis biology, tumor immunology, microbiology, and microbiome research.
• Hands-on experience with preclinical mouse models (e.g., murine xenograft or transgenic models, colony management).
• Experience analyzing immunological datasets, such as flow cytometry data and multiplex cytokine assay, with working knowledge of standard analysis platforms (e.g., FlowJo, GraphPad, R) is a plus.
• Experience with microbiome research methodologies is a plus.
  
  

Responsibilities

• Lead independent and collaborative research.
• Design and execute rigorous, hypothesis-driven experiments using in vitro, in vivo, and/or omics-based approaches to address key questions in cancer biology.
• Analyze, interpret, and present data in lab meetings, institutional seminars, and scientific conferences.
• Maintain accurate and organized research records and contribute to manuscript preparation, grant writing, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Stay up to date with relevant scientific literature and bring innovative ideas and critical thinking to the lab’s research direction.
• Collaborate effectively with internal and external teams, including clinicians, bioinformaticians, and core facilities.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to scientific rigor and ethics, embrace teamwork, and contribute positively to the lab environment, and pursue continuous professional development.
• Participate in mentoring junior trainees and lab members when appropriate.
  
  

Credentials And Qualifications

• Candidates must hold (or be close to completing) a PhD, MD/PhD, or DDS/PhD in cancer biology, microbiology, immunology, or related fields.
  
  

Preferred

• Excellent communication and writing skills.
• Record of peer-reviewed publications and presentations demonstrating research productivity.
  
  

How to Apply: Interested applicants are invited to submit a single PDF file containing the following materials to golnaz.morad@moffitt.org.

• A 1-page cover letter summarizing their research training, accomplishments, and career goals.
• Current CV with recent publications
• Contact information of at least two references.
  
  

Informal inquiries are also welcome and may be directed to Dr. Golnaz Morad. The appointment will remain open until filled.

Moffitt Postdocs enjoy comprehensive medical coverage, with Moffitt covering the premium effective your very first day. In addition to this valuable benefit, you will also be eligible for dental and vision insurance, generous paid time off, retirement, parental leave, and much more. Furthermore, you may qualify for relocation assistance as per our policy, ensuring a seamless transition to your exciting new role.

Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute is proud to be Florida’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center located in Tampa. We strive to be the leader in understanding the complexity of cancer through team science and applying those insights for human benefits. Every Team Member of Moffitt focuses on our lasting commitment to our mission: To contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.

Moffitt Cancer Center proudly stands as a Comprehensive Cancer Center designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the vibrant city of Tampa, Florida. This dynamic city is an exceptional choice for those seeking exciting opportunities in a rapidly growing metropolitan area. With its flourishing economy and rich cultural diversity, the Tampa Bay region masterfully combines urban elegance with breathtaking natural beauty. Discover why countless individuals have chosen to make Tampa their home and experience firsthand what makes it one of the fastest-growing metropolitan cities in the United States.