Division of Experimental OncologyDepartment of Oncology
Name: YangXin Fu
Type of trainee sought: Postdoctoral fellow, Master and PhD student, and summer student
Brief description of research area/project:
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women and the leading cause of death related to gynecologic cancers. There were an estimated 21,880 new cases of ovarian cancer and 13,850 deaths due to this disease in the Unites States for the year 2010. In Canada, there will be 2,600 new cases of ovarian cancer and 1,750 deaths due to this disease in 2010. Unfortunately, more than 75% of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Current chemotherapy regimens are ineffective against advanced ovarian cancer due to the development of drug resistance. Thus there is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic strategies, such as targeted therapy.
The objective of our research is to better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying growth, progression, metastasis and chemoresistance of ovarian cancer and to identify novel therapeutic targets for ovarian cancer. Currently, we are investigating the role of Notch and nitric oxide (NO) signaling pathways in ovarian tumorigenesis and chemoresistance of ovarian cancer using cell and molecular biology approaches and mouse models. We hope our research will lead to discovery of novel therapeutic targets for advanced ovarian cancer.
Brief description of ideal candidates:
For postdoc positions, applicants should have a recent PhD in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or relevant disciplines with a strong publication record. Previous experience in cancer research, particularly in mouse models of cancer, will be a strong asset. Good oral and written communication skills in English and the ability to work as a team are essential.
For graduate student positions, applicants should have a B.Sc. in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or relevant disciplines. The successful applicant has to fulfill the minimum requirements of the graduate program of the University of Alberta.