Job Details

Postdoctoral Position in Cancer Metabolism and Molecular Imaging

Position Number: 9916361
Location: Philadelphia, United States
Position Type: Medicine - Medical Researcher

Postdoctoral Position in Cancer Metabolism and Molecular Imaging

Location: University of Pennsylvania - School of Medicine
Open Date: Oct 21, 2026
Deadline:

Dr. David Tischfield, Assistant Professor of Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania, is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join his research program within the Penn Image-Guided Interventions Laboratory, directed by Dr. Terence Gade. Based in the Departments of Radiology and Cancer Biology, the laboratory brings together investigators with complementary expertise in cancer biology, chemistry, engineering, imaging, and clinical medicine. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Tischfield and collaborate with other co-principal investigators and team members on integrated studies that draw on this multidisciplinary expertise.

Dr. Tischfield's research program investigates cancer metabolism and the tumor microenvironment to develop molecular imaging approaches and therapeutic strategies. The position emphasizes preclinical hyperpolarized carbon-13 MRI, PET, and mass spectrometry-based metabolomics, integrating imaging with mechanistic studies in cells and animal models of cancer.

The postdoctoral researcher will initially contribute to completing ongoing studies and will then take increasing ownership of projects leading to first-author publications. Working closely with Dr. Tischfield and collaborators, the fellow will design experiments, interpret results, prepare manuscripts, and help shape new research directions.

Research activities include:

Preclinical hyperpolarized MRI and PET studies of tumor metabolism and treatment response
Metabolomics and stable isotope tracing experiments
Mechanistic studies using mouse models, mammalian cell culture, and molecular and biochemical assays
Integration of imaging, mass spectrometry, and biological data
Maintenance of rigorous experimental records
Communication of findings through manuscripts and scientific presentations

A minimum two-year commitment is expected, with a preferred duration of four years to support project development and first-author publications. Please note that all appointments are for one year-periods, with reappointment on a yearly basis.

Qualifications
Applicants must hold a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree by the start date. Candidates from a broad range of fields are encouraged to apply, including:

Cancer biology
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Biomedical engineering
Physics
Related disciplines

We recognize that relevant experience varies across fields and will consider each applicant's overall research background and potential.

Candidates should demonstrate:

Scientific initiative
Strong analytical skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently
Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment

Relevant experience in one or more of the following is preferred:

Preclinical imaging
Hyperpolarized MRI, conventional MRI, or NMR spectroscopy
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics or stable isotope tracing
Chemistry
Mouse handling and animal experimentation
Mammalian cell culture
Molecular biology or biochemical methods

Expertise in every area is not expected. However, willingness to work with animals and to develop complementary experimental skills is essential.

The University of Pennsylvania is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and, in most cases, is able to sponsor visas for qualified applicants. Visa sponsorship for this position is contingent upon eligibility as determined by the specific funding source and applicable regulations.

Application Instructions
Applicants should submit the following materials:

Curriculum vitae (CV)
Research statement describing prior experience and research interests
Contact information for three references

Please also include:

Anticipated availability/start date
Expected duration of commitment

To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/196026

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.