Dr. Long-Sheng Chang Research Lab

A postdoctoral position is available in the Chang Research Laboratory within the Center for Childhood Cancer of the Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. This project will focus on developing novel medical therapies, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies, for the treatment of neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2)- and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-associated tumors as well as pediatric soft-tissue and bone sarcomas. Individuals with experience in or willingness to learn tumor biology and signaling, therapeutic evaluation, and multi-omics analysis, as well as those with expertise in molecular and cellular biology and animal models are encouraged to apply.

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a group of genetic diseases that predispose individuals to the development of multiple nervous system tumors and other debilitating manifestations. Due to limited treatment options, these NF-associated tumors caused significant morbidity and mortality. To develop a medical therapy for NF-associated tumors, our lab has studied the NF2 tumor-suppressor gene function and expression during development and tumorigenesis.

We have identified novel NF2 functions and potential druggable targets. Several cell culture and animal models for NF2-associated schwannomas and meningiomas and NF1-related malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) have been generated and used to identify novel targeted drugs or drug combinations that potently suppress tumor growth. Several targeted compounds that we have studied have advanced into clinical trials. In addition, we have identified several eIF4A (eukaryotic initiation factor 4A) inhibitors with potent anti-tumor activities. We have also identified compounds or drugs that highly synergize with these eIF4A inhibitors to eliminate NF-related tumor and multiple types of sarcoma cells. The ultimate goal of our research is to advance these efficacious medical treatments into the clinic, ultimately improving the clinical care and long-term treatment outcomes for these patients

1. With guidance from PI, design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses in a specific area of research.
2. Help train and supervise students and technical support staff in performing specific techniques essential to carrying out the research program.
3. Record and analyze data generated by the research study, discuss research findings with PI periodically, and help plan future research endeavors.
4. Prepare scientific and technical papers from the results of research work for publication in appropriate refereed scientific journals. Present findings at local and national research meetings or conferences.
5. Assist PI in writing grant proposal. Encouraged, but not required, work toward research independence.

Education:

• MD and/or PhD, or equivalent degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline
• Necessary technical skills in the appropriate area of research.
• Ability to do technical writing and good communication skills.

Interested individuals should send CV and references to:

Dr. Long-Sheng Chang

Center for Childhood Cancer

Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital

WA-5104, 700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio

Phone: 614-355-2658; Fax: 614-722-5895

E-mail: Long-Sheng.Chang@nationwidechildrens.org or chang.22@osu.edu

MINIMUM PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Percent of time spent on:
25% Designing and developing protocols
25% Performing research work
25% Recording and analyzing data generated by research study
10% Preparing scientific and technical papers
03% Liaison with OSU researchers
02% Miscellaneous paperwork associated with research