Description
Position Description
The Integrated Center for Cellular Therapy (ICCT) at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and the MUSC College of Medicine invite applications for a full-time, open rank, tenure track faculty position in the field of cellular immunotherapy. Faculty rank and home department will be determined based on the qualifications and experience of the selected candidate. We seek exceptional candidates who are committed to advancing the development and clinical translation of novel cell-based therapies for cancer and other immune-related diseases. The ICCT integrates expertise across immunology, cell and gene therapy, hematology/oncology, and translational medicine to create an innovative environment for scientific discovery and therapeutic innovation. We are particularly interested in individuals with research programs focused on cancer immunotherapy, cell engineering (e.g., CAR-T, TCR, NK cells), and modulation of the tumor microenvironment. Candidates utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as gene editing, single-cell profiling, or synthetic biology to enhance immune function are highly encouraged to apply.
Role Overview
Develop and lead a robust independent research program in cellular therapy and immuno-oncology.
Foster interdisciplinary collaboration across MUSC’s academic, clinical, and translational units.
Obtain extramural funding to support research endeavors.
Publish impactful research in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Participate in the training and mentorship of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and clinical residents.
Contribute to the strategic growth of the ICCT’s translational and clinical research initiatives.
Qualifications
PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in immunology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field.
Postdoctoral experience with a strong record of research productivity.
Evidence of or potential for securing independent funding (e.g., NIH R01, foundation grants).
Senior applicants should demonstrate a sustained track record of high-impact research and leadership.
Preferred Research Areas
Cancer immunotherapy and immune modulation.
Genetic engineering of immune cells (CAR-T, TCR, NK).
Tumor microenvironment and immune evasion.
Translational immunology and clinical trials.
Gene editing, synthetic biology, and cell therapy manufacturing.
Start-Up and Support
The successful candidate will receive a competitive start-up package tailored to support the launch and growth of their research program. This includes dedicated laboratory space, access to state-of-the-art core facilities, and administrative support for grant development. MUSC and the ICCT are committed to fostering faculty development through mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and clinical integration.
About MUSC
Founded in 1824, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) continues the tradition of excellence in education, research, and patient care. MUSC educates and trains more than 3,000 students and 700 residents in six colleges and has nearly 13,000 employees, including approximately 1,500 faculty members. As the state’s only academic health science center and largest non-federal employer in Charleston, the university and its affiliates have collective annual budgets of over $2.4 billion, with an annual economic impact of nearly $4 billion and annual research funding of over $275 million. MUSC operates a 700-bed medical center, which includes a nationally recognized children’s hospital, the NCI-designated Hollings Cancer Center, a Level I trauma center, the Institute of Psychiatry, more than 100 outreach locations across the state, and South Carolina’s only transplant center.
About the Integrated Center for Cellular Therapy
The ICCT is a collaborative initiative within MUSC that unites experts across disciplines to accelerate the discovery, translation, and clinical delivery of cellular immunotherapies. Located in Charleston, SC, MUSC is a premier academic medical center and home to nationally recognized programs in cancer research and advanced therapeutics.
About Hollings Cancer Center
Hollings Cancer Center (HCC) at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center in South Carolina, serving 5.2M residents. As an NCI-designated cancer center, HCC is part of an elite network of 73 cancer centers across the country recognized for our dedication to delivering cutting-edge treatments to patients and conducting innovative research to serve the unique needs of our state. HCC is also part of the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP), a national network with the common goal of bringing cancer clinical trials to patients in their own communities and improving access to quality care for everyone, no matter where they live.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit:
1. A cover letter outlining research interests and vision that includes a plan for the potential bench to bedside translation of the current research.
2. Curriculum vitae
3. Research statement (2-3 pages)
4. Contact information for at least three references
Contact Information
Please submit your application via the MUSC Careers Portal. Inquiries may be directed to the ICCT Faculty Search Committee by email to Dr. Shikhar Mehrotra at [email protected]
Requirements
Qualifications
PhD, MD, or MD/PhD in immunology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field.
Postdoctoral experience with a strong record of research productivity.
Evidence of or potential for securing independent funding (e.g., NIH R01, foundation grants).
Senior applicants should demonstrate a sustained track record of high-impact research and leadership.
Preferred Research Areas
Cancer immunotherapy and immune modulation.
Genetic engineering of immune cells (CAR-T, TCR, NK).
Tumor microenvironment and immune evasion.
Translational immunology and clinical trials.
Gene editing, synthetic biology, and cell therapy manufacturing.
