Postdoctoral Fellow – Tubulin Code, Cell Biology and Cancer Signaling - UNMCCC

Job Details

University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center – Albuquerque, NM, USA

Join an NIH R01-funded research program at the intersection of structural biology, cell signaling, and cancer biology. We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Fellow to decode the "Tubulin Code"—investigating how the microtubule cytoskeleton functions as an active and dynamic signaling hub governing cellular homeostasis and cancer progression.

Research Highlights

The successful candidate will investigate how tubulin isotypes, post-translational modifications (PTMs), and the microtubule conformational code regulate cellular function through three primary pillars:

• Reader screening & characterization: Utilizing a robust, unbiased quantitative proteomics pipeline to identify MAPs that "read" specific microtubule states (PMID: 35963242).
• Signaling & disease pathologies: Exploring how tubulin code functions in healthy cells (PMID: 41662400) and how it is dysregulated in diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration.
• Next-generation tool development: Utilizing fluorescent Fab probes and live-cell sensors to visualize cytoskeleton dynamics in real-time (PMID: 37716348).

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field (recent graduates encouraged)
• Interdisciplinary candidates welcome: We strongly encourage applications from candidates outside the microtubule field in health science (e.g., Plant Biology, Structural Biology, or Bioengineering) who possess strong transferable skills in microscopy and protein biochemistry.
• Technical background in advanced fluorescence microscopy, cell culture, and/or in vitro protein biochemistry. Experience in mass spectrometry is a plus.
• Proven track record of scientific productivity and strong communication skills.

Why UNM Cancer Center?

• Collaborative environment: The Hotta group operates as an independent research team nested within the Puck Ohi Lab. This unique framework provides the dedicated, close mentorship of an early-career investigator combined with the extensive infrastructure, funding security, and collaborative network of an established microtubule research lab.
• Work within a multidisciplinary, NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center with state-of-the-art core facilities.
• Opportunities for high-impact publications and career development
• Live in Albuquerque, NM—a vibrant city with rich culture and affordable living
• Salary based on the NIH guidelines for Postdoctoral Trainees and Fellows, https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-105.html

Application

To apply, please send a single PDF containing your CV, a brief cover letter outlining your research interests/goals, and contact information for three references to Dr. Takashi Hotta at Thotta@salud.unm.edu Please use “Postdoc Application: Tubulin Code – [Your Name]” as a title line.

For more about our research: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/takashi.hotta.1/bibliography/public/

Supporting Documents: Download Job supporting document (PDF)

The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.