Development of Novel Biological Agents for In Vivo Cancer Imaging and Therapy
Department of Radiology
Mentor: Benjamin Larimer, PhD, Assistant Professor, Department of Radiology.
A postdoctoral position is available in the Larimer Lab within the Department of Radiology and Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) focusing on the discovery and development of novel biological agents. We have developed a humanized library of single domain antibodies (nanobodies) displayed on the surface of bacteriophage which we utilize to create proteins with the potential to characterize and treat cancer. The properties of nanobodies allow for unique biological applications, and our library provides a strategic opportunity to generate a new class of cancer therapeutics and imaging agents. UAB has a world-class NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center and Small Animal Imaging Facility which provide access to the resources necessary to apply developed nanobodies in cutting-edge models of cancer and immunotherapy. Our group collaborates with other top-tier academic research centers both nationally and internationally to apply our discoveries to a variety of leading cancer research.
We are seeking a candidate to select for clinically-translatable nanobodies against valuable cancer and immunological targets. Further, development and modification of select proteins is also desired in order to impart therapeutic or molecular imaging capabilities. Primarily, our group is focused on translational research and we have experience in bringing discoveries from animal models to clinical trial. The candidate will be supported in pursuit of clinical application of their discoveries as well as publication and generation of intellectual property based on their research. In addition to nanobody development candidates will receive mentoring in phage display, animal models of cancer and in vivo imaging.
Interested candidates should contact Benjamin Larimer with application information (CV, cover letter, references and possible start date) by email at blarimer@uab.edu.
Applicant Requirements:
- PhD degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering or a related field.
- Background in protein engineering and expression systems preferred.
- Experience in antibody engineering desirable.
- Strong experience in experimental design and written and oral communication.
About our Postdoc office:
UAB is committed to the development and success of outstanding postdoctoral scientists. Here at UAB, nearly 250 postdoctoral fellows are training currently in a variety of disciplines, including dentistry, engineering, health professions, medicine, natural sciences and mathematics, public health, optometry, and social and behavioral sciences. Competitive postdoc awards are available including internships, grant incentives, funds to enhance education and collaboration outside UAB, and teaching opportunities at local universities. There is also a Postdoc Research Day with monetary awards. The OPE strongly encourages UAB research mentors to follow the National Research Service Award stipend level guidelines, and postdoctoral scholars qualify for health, life, and other insurances. They also have the right to participate in the university’s 403(b) program and enjoy vacation, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, and other benefits.