Location

University of Pennsylvania - Perelman School of Medicine

Open Date

May 6, 2026

Description

The Fan Laboratory in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine is recruiting creative, collaborative, and highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientists to lead research projects in cancer immunology and cardiovascular biology.

Our lab investigates how the tissue microenvironment regulates cancer immunity and heart repair. We are particularly interested in:

• The molecular mechanisms underlying vascular control of immune cell function in cancer and ischemic heart disease;

• Targeting myeloid cells to overcome cancer-associated immunosuppression;

• The biology and therapeutic targeting of γδT cell and NKT cell exhaustion in cancer;

• Advanced radiation strategies, including FLASH and SFRT, to modulate tissue immunity in tumors and normal hearts.

Our research integrates mouse models, quantitative molecular and cell biology, immunology, metabolism, and multi-omics approaches—including transcriptomics, epigenomics, and proteomics—as well as advanced 3D imaging to uncover molecular pathways and develop novel therapeutic strategies.

https://www.med.upenn.edu/apps/faculty/index.php/g20002840/p8679288.

Projects will be tailored to the interests of the successful candidate within broadly defined research themes, including:

• Molecular communication among endothelial cells, fibroblasts, macrophages, and dendritic cells

• Metabolic and transcriptional mechanisms regulating γδT cell dysfunction in the tumor microenvironment

• Combinatorial strategies integrating CAR-T cell therapy with FLASH- and SFRT-based radiotherapy

• Targeting endothelial plasticity and myeloid cell transitions to improve cardiac repair following ischemia

The Fan Lab emphasizes rigorous science, intellectual independence, and strong mentorship, supporting career trajectories with a strong track record of trainees advancing to independent faculty positions.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• PhD in Cancer Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related field

• Demonstrated research productivity, including first-author primary research publications

• Strong experimental and analytical skills in molecular, cellular, or tissue biology

• Ability to independently design and execute experiments

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with mouse models

• Background in metabolism and/or immunological analysis

• Experience in cancer and/or cardiovascular research workflows

• Bioinformatics skills (e.g., R, Python, or related tools)

Candidates requiring visa sponsorship are welcome to apply.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit:

• a curriculum vitae

• a cover letter describing their research experience and interests

• a PDF of relevant publication(s)

• contact information for three references

Any questions can be directed to Dr. Yi Fan (fanyi@upenn.edu).

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.