Postdoctoral Scientist - Watson Lab

About the Watson Lab

The Watson Lab at UMass Chan Medical School leads pioneering research in cancer systems-genomics by constructing tumor-like genomes in the lab to investigate chromosomal aberrations such as amplifications and deletions, as well as structural variants. Leveraging the principles of forward genetics and in vitro evolution, the lab generates aneuploid mutants from normal diploid epithelial cells to understand the origins and functions of recurrent chromosomal alterations found in human cancers. The Watson lab utilizes cell type of origin models for various cancer types to understand the tissue-specify of chromosomal alteration patterns in cancer.

By comparing these engineered genomes with genomic and transcriptomic data from human tumors, the Watson Lab seeks to uncover the functional roles—including phenotypic effects—of frequent chromosomal abnormalities, such as gains of 1q and 8q, thereby advancing our understanding of tumor biology and potential therapeutic targets.

🔗 Learn more about our work: Watson Lab website

About the Role:

We are seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientists to run independent projects within the Watson Lab. This position is especially well-suited for:

• New Ph.D. graduates or those with two years or less of prior postdoc experience.

• Researchers trained in cancer biology or genomics seeking continuity in their research.

• Individuals from related fields looking to transition into cancer genomics.

Postdocs in the Watson lab will leverage existing functional genetics methodologies in mammalian systems while also contributing to technology development in genomics and cancer biology. The role combines project ownership with opportunities to:

• Mentor technicians and graduate students.

• Collaborate on ongoing projects (e.g., establishing cell lines, refining methods).

• Pursue co-authorship, fellowships, and independent funding with guidance from Dr. Watson.

This is an opportunity to drive high-impact research at the intersection of cancer biology, genomics, and methods innovation.

What You’ll Get:

• Opportunities to present your work at seminars, conferences, and scientific meetings.

• Direct support in writing and securing fellowships, building toward independent funding.

• Strong publication potential through first-author papers and collaborative manuscripts.

• A genomics “playground” environment, with access to cutting-edge equipment (in-house NextSeq2000, etc), resources, and mentorship to explore ambitious projects.

• Active encouragement to creatively develop new ideas and approaches.

What You Will Do:

• Design, execute, and publish independent postdoctoral projects in cancer genomics and functional genetics.

• Apply and develop novel methods and technologies in genomics and cancer biology.

• Conduct experiments in mammalian systems using tissue culture, sequencing approaches, and molecular biology tools.

• Support ongoing projects, contributing to resource development, method optimization, and collaborative publications.

• Provide light mentorship to technicians and graduate students.

• Present findings internally and externally, increasing scientific visibility.

What You Bring:

• A Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field.

• 0–2 years of postdoctoral experience (preferred, not required) — this is a great opportunity for newly graduated PhDs.

• Proven ability to independently design and carry out projects.

• Strong skills in tissue culture and molecular biology (required).

• Experience with DNA sequencing, RNA sequencing, or single-cell sequencing (preferred but not required).

• Interest or experience in technology development in genomics and cancer biology.

• Additional computational/data analysis experience (preferred but not required).

Soft Skills:

• A collaborative, team-oriented approach.

• Excellent communication skills for writing, mentoring, and presentations.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance independent research and collaborative contributions.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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