Postdoctoral Scholar - Research Associate

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which is comprised of the faculty, students, and staff that make the university what it is.

A postdoctoral research position in genetic and cancer epidemiology is available in the lab of Dr. Fei Chen at the USC Center for Genetic Epidemiology. Dr. Chen’s research is focused on understanding the contribution of genetics and the interplay between genetic and non-genetic factors in determining risk, survival, and disparities of common cancers, with a special focus on prostate cancer, breast cancer, and multiple primary malignancies. The postdoctoral researcher will work directly with Dr. Fei Chen on analyzing data from genetic association studies, which includes GWAS and/or sequencing data from large-scale genetics consortia such as the RESPOND Study, UK Biobank, and All of US. In addition to genetic studies, non-genetic factors (e.g. lifestyle, diet, etc.) and their effects on cancer outcomes will also be examined using data from the Multiethnic Cohort Study. The postdoctoral researcher will also work closely with other co-investigators at USC, including Dr. Christopher Haiman and Dr. David Conti.

In this position, we are looking for a postdoctoral researcher with a strong interest in genetic and cancer epidemiology research. The applicant must have a Ph.D. (or equivalent qualification) with training in epidemiology, biostatistics, and/or statistical genetics. Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g. R, python), common analytic tools for genetic research (e.g. PLINK, SAIGE, imputation, etc.), and a Unix-based computing environment is desirable, but not necessary. Experience in conducting genetic epidemiologic research and analyzing large genetic datasets is also a plus, but not necessary. Passion to learn about human genetic research and to perform rigorous research is a must. The postdoctoral researcher will participate in the presentation of their research and the writing of publications. The position requires a highly motivated individual with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

The annual base salary range for this position is $70,000- $72,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Interested candidates should submit a CV, a short cover letter (1 page) describing their research interests, and contact information for 2-3 references. Potential applicants are encouraged to submit information inquiries to Dr. Fei Chen at feic@usc.edu.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent qualification

Minimum Experience: 0-1 year

Preferred Field of Expertise: Epidemiology, biostatistics, and/or statistical genetics

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent qualification Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Preferred Field of Expertise: Epidemiology, biostatistics, and/or statistical genetics