Posted on: May 27, 2026

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

A postdoctoral research fellow position is available in the newly established Kovalski lab at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to study the molecular mechanisms of post-transcriptional gene expression in health and disease. We are an enthusiastic, collaborative team dedicated to tackling outstanding questions at the interface of RNA biology and cancer biology.

Several open questions in the lab include: how do RNA binding proteins remodel the cellular proteome to drive oncogenic transformation? How are RBPs functionally repurposed as cells transition from a healthy to malignant state? How do RNA binding proteins coordinate selective translation of key oncogenes to enable cancer cells to rapidly adapt to stress and therapy?

The potential candidate will utilize cell culture models and proximity proteomics to map RBP interaction networks across cellular compartments, in combination with CLIP-sequencing, RNA structure probing, polysome-sequencing, and in vivo cancer mouse models to dissect mechanisms of post-transcriptional control in normal and cancer cells. Highly motivated individuals with a recent Ph.D., M.D., or M.D./Ph.D. and a background in RNA biology, cancer biology, biochemistry, or cellular and molecular biology are encouraged to apply. Evidence of scientific accomplishment is required, including a strong publication record, and bioinformatics skills are desirable. All lab members are expected to apply for fellowships as part of their training.

The Kovalski lab is located in the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (LCCC), which provides an exceptionally collaborative environment at the interface of basic science and translational cancer research. Postdoctoral fellows will have access to outstanding core facilities supporting genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, flow cytometry, and advanced imaging, as well as rich professional training and mentorship opportunities across UNC-Chapel Hill’s broader research community.

Please send a one-page cover letter, curriculum vitae, and contact information for three referees to Joanna Kovalski via email: Joanna_kovalski@med.unc.edu or apply online https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/318679.