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The Trakala Lab investigates how chromosome missegregation during mitosis and the resulting aneuploidy influence both normal and tumor cells, with a focus on how copy number variations (CNVs) impact cell fate decisions and tumorigenesis in vivo. Utilizing a novel inducible mouse model, we can induce high levels of chromosome missegregation and aneuploidy in a tissue-specific manner in adult mice. Through single-cell RNA sequencing, we have characterized the transcriptional response of intestinal epithelial cells to aneuploidy and are currently exploring how this cell-autonomous response activates the immune system, leading to the elimination of aneuploid cells from tissues. These studies are being conducted in both immunocompetent mice and models with targeted depletion of specific immune cell populations. Additionally, we are investigating alterations in the immunopeptidome on aneuploid cell surfaces and their role in immune surveillance in vivo.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

The Trakala Lab is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate the impact of chromosome missegregation and aneuploidy on cell fate and tumorigenesis in vivo. Our research utilizes an innovative inducible mouse model that generates chromosome missegregation and aneuploidy in a tissue-specific manner.

Key ongoing projects include:

Characterizing the transcriptional response of epithelial cells to aneuploidy using single-cell RNA sequencing.

Investigating immune system activation and the elimination of aneuploid cells in both immunocompetent mice and models with targeted immune cell depletion.

Exploring how changes in the immunopeptidome of aneuploid cells influence immune surveillance.

Our lab provides a dynamic environment for cutting-edge research with a focus on genetics, cancer biology, and immunology.

Trainees will gain expertise in:

• Mouse models of tumorigenesis and aneuploidy.

• Histological and bioinformatics analyses.

• Single-cell RNA sequencing and 3D tissue cultures.

• Immune cell isolation, flow cytometry, and immunological assays.

• Scientific communication, grant writing, and manuscript preparation.

Postdocs will receive personalized mentorship, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities to present their work at institutional meeting and national conferences.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

We are seeking highly motivated candidates with a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent degree in Genetics, Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field. Proven research track record, including publications in peer-reviewed journals. Strong communication and organizational skills. Experimental candidates should have experience with molecular biology techniques and in vivo mouse models. Computational candidates should demonstrate expertise in bioinformatics, integration of multi-omics data, and proficiency in programming languages (e.g., Python, R).

POSITION INFORMATION

MD Anderson offers full-time postdoc positions with a salary ranging from $64,000 to $76,000 (https://trainees.mdanderson.org/apply/mdaPostdoctoralFellowStipendFY24.pdf) . depending on the number of years of postgraduate experience. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers excellent benefits (https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/insurance-0/eligibility) , including medical, dental, paid time off (https://www.mdanderson.org/about-md-anderson/employee-resources/leave.html) , retirement (https://www.utsystem.edu/offices/employee-benefits/ut-retirement-program/voluntary-retirement-programs) , tuition benefits, educational opportunities, and individual and team recognition08/31/2025