The Indiana University School of Medicine and the IU Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center seek a highly motivated Research Assistant Professor to join the HEAL Laboratory. The successful candidate will contribute to a dynamic translational research program focused on the mechanisms of head and neck cancer progression, immunotherapy response and resistance, tumor immunology, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

This non-tenure track faculty position provides an opportunity to conduct innovative laboratory-based and translational research within a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. The successful applicant will be expected to develop an independent area of investigation that complements ongoing laboratory efforts while contributing to collaborative projects and external grant funding initiatives.

Expectations for Success

The ideal candidate will be an innovative and collaborative scientist with a strong interest in translating laboratory discoveries into improved treatments for patients with head and neck cancers. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to developing externally funded research programs and be prepared to lead grant-writing efforts within the first year of appointment. The successful applicant will be expected to contribute substantially to the growth of the HEAL Lab by generating novel scientific insights, fostering collaborations, and helping secure sustainable research funding.

This position is intended for an individual seeking to establish an independent, extramurally funded research program. The successful candidate will be expected to pursue career development and independent funding mechanisms, including NIH K-series awards, R21, R03, and R01 grants, Department of Defense funding opportunities, American Cancer Society grants, and other foundation-supported research awards, with the goal of achieving long-term research independence and national recognition in the field of cancer biology and immunotherapy.

The HEAL Laboratory is embedded within the Indiana University School of Medicine and the IU Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, providing access to outstanding core facilities, including flow cytometry, genomics, biostatistics, animal modeling, and translational research resources. The laboratory maintains strong collaborations among clinicians, translational investigators, and basic scientists with a shared mission of improving outcomes for patients with head and neck cancers.

IU School of Medicine is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana.

Indianapolis is the capital and most populous city in the State of Indiana. It is growing economically thanks to a strong corporate base anchored by the life sciences. Indiana is home to one of the nation’s largest concentrations of health sciences companies. Indianapolis has a sophisticated blend of charm and culture with a wonderful balance of business and leisure. The growing residential base is supported by rich amenities and quality of life – the city possesses a variety of professional sports, arts venues, and outdoor recreation areas. Residents of this dynamic city and surrounding suburbs enjoy leading educational systems and top-ranked universities paired with a diverse population. Indianapolis International Airport is a top-ranked international airport that has been named “Best Airport in North America” by Airports Council International for many years. For additional information on life in Indy: https://faculty.medicine.iu.edu/relocation.

The search committee will begin evaluating applications as they are received, and applications will continue to be reviewed until this position is filled.

· Evidence of developing an independent research program. Demonstrated commitment to pursuing independent research funding and building a sustainable translational research program is highly desirable.

Sabrina Hetzel (HR contact) at snwall@iu.edu