A postdoctoral position is available to study the molecular mechanisms of UV-induced DNA damage and repair, melanocyte proliferation and melanoma formation, in an exciting lab whose past work has included the development of several genetically engineered mouse models to demonstrate a UV-induced pigment signal pathway. This work and others has opened up an exciting field of research on the interaction between pigmentation and skin carcinogenesis. We are now focusing on understanding the anti-proliferation signal pathway of melanocyte after UVB irradiation, the role of pheomelanin in DNA repair, and the signal pathway of cutaneous melanoma formation. Our research will take a comprehensive approach combining mouse genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and imaging modalities to uncover these mechanisms. Ultimately, we aim to find some small molecular mechanism to regulate tanning response or inhibit melanoma growth. This project is being supported by NIH/NCI RO1 grant and Research Scholar Grant of American Cancer Society.

Highly motivated postdoctoral candidates with an enthusiastic interest in our research program are invited to apply. Please email or send a cover letter, CV, as well as 3 reference names, e-mail addresses and telephone numbers to:

Rutao Cui MD, PhD
Principle Investigator,
Molecular Oncology Research Institute
Tufts Medical Center
Assistant Professor,
Department of Medicine
Tufts University School of Medicine
Email: rcui@tuftsmedicalcenter.org

MORI, a core component of the Tufts Medical Center Cancer Center, has 17 faculty members currently and occupies a space of more than 31,000 square feet in the 75 Kneeland Street research building. Its mission is to explore the molecular mechanisms of neoplastic transformation and to promote the translation of basic research findings into the clinic. To achieve this goal, MORI scientists carry out research that spans the spectrum from gene discovery to target validation for drug development.