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Post-doctoral position in stem cells, cancer and aging

Posted by , on 9 September 2026

Job type:

Location: SANTA CRUZ, California

Closing Date: 30 September 2027

Post-doctoral positions are available in the Sikandar Lab in the Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of California – Santa Cruz. Nestled in the majestic Redwood forests near the Pacific Ocean, the department has a vibrant research community with strong focus on stem cell biology, cancer biology and Bioinformatics (home to UCSC genome browser). Our lab is affiliated with The Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells with access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Successful candidates will use a combination of genomic and in vivo models to understand how aging and alterations to the microenvironment impact cellular plasticity and breast cancer progression. The long-term goal of the Sikandar lab is to identify molecular pathways that can be leveraged to develop novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.

Applicants with demonstrated experience in any of the following areas are highly encouraged to apply: Immunology, stem cell biology, cancer biology and cellular plasticity.

As your post-doctoral advisor, I am fully committed to your success, and I will support you to reach the career goals that you set for yourself. UCSC has exceptional career development programs for post-doctoral fellows. In addition, its close proximity to other universities in San Francisco Bay Area and the biotech startups makes it an ideal location to forge relationships with other academic labs as well as industry. Please email me (ssikanda at ucsc.edu) with a cover letter stating your scientific background and interest, your CV and names/addresses of your advisors. Applicants from underrepresented groups in sciences are highly encouraged to apply.

Informal inquires also are welcome!

Salary: $71,000-85,000

Start date: 1 January 2027

Closing Date: 30 September 2027

Scientific fields: Cell fate control and differentiation, Development and disease, Homeostasis and aging, Stem cells

Model systems: Mouse, Organoid, Human

Duration: Permanent

Minimum qualifications: Ph.D