Postdoctoral Fellow - CAR T Cell Therapy and Translational Immunotherapy

Postdoctoral Fellow - CAR T Cell Therapy and Translational Immunotherapy

Location: University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC), Baltimore, MD

Principal Investigator: Dr. Djordje Atanackovic

Position Summary

The Atanackovic Lab at the University of Maryland Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center (UMGCCC) is recruiting a junior Postdoctoral Fellow to join an active translational research program focused on CAR T cell therapies for hematologic malignancies and emerging solid-tumor indications.

This position is ideally suited for a recent PhD or MD/PhD graduate seeking hands-on training in CAR T cell engineering, patient-sample analysis, and translational immunotherapy research. The fellow will work closely with senior scientists and clinician-investigators and will be supported in developing first-author manuscripts, conference abstracts, and independent research directions.

Training & Research Focus

The postdoctoral fellow will receive structured mentorship and practical training in:

• Engineering and characterization of next-generation CAR T cells, including multi-specific (e.g., tri-specific) and armored CAR designs
• Ex vivo manipulation of primary human T cells (activation, transduction, expansion)
• Immune profiling and correlative studies using patient samples from CAR T cell clinical trials
• In vitro and in vivo assays evaluating CAR T cell efficacy, persistence, and resistance mechanisms
• Exposure to GMP manufacturing interfaces and translational workflows

Key Responsibilities

• Perform CAR T cell generation and functional assays under guidance of senior lab members
• Conduct flow cytometry-based immune phenotyping and cytokine analyses
• Analyze and interpret data from preclinical studies and patient-derived samples
• Maintain detailed experimental records and contribute to data quality and reproducibility
• Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and collaborative translational research efforts
• Contribute to first-author manuscripts, abstracts, and grant-related activities

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. in Immunology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field
• Solid foundation in cellular immunology or molecular biology
• Strong motivation to learn CAR T cell technologies and translational research approaches
• Excellent organizational skills and willingness to work collaboratively

Preferred (but Not Required) Experience

• Flow cytometry and analysis of primary immune cells
• Viral or non-viral gene transfer methods (e.g., lentiviral vectors)
• Exposure to cancer immunotherapy or adoptive cell therapy research
• Experience with human samples or translational research settings

Application Instructions

Please submit a single PDF containing:

1. Curriculum vitae
2. Brief statement of research interests and career goals (1-2 pages)
3. Contact information for three references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. For assistance related to employment, please contact the Staffing department at HRJobs@umaryland.edu.