The Johnston Laboratory is an interdisciplinary and highly collaborative team of microbiologists, synthetic biologists, and engineers dedicated to developing microbial cell therapies (MCTs) for cancer treatment. Our long-term goal is to harness the tumor-colonizing capabilities of specific microbes and engineer them as programmable therapeutic platforms for targeted payload delivery within the tumor microenvironment.
To realize this vision, we are building the genetic toolkits necessary to enable precise and scalable engineering of non-model, tumor-associated microbes. This includes the development of transformation protocols, counterselection systems, modular expression cassettes, and immune-modulatory payloads, all within a translational context. We use insights from tumor microbiome profiling to guide engineering efforts and test these strains in vitro and in preclinical models of solid tumors.
We are seeking a well-organized, highly motivated postdoctoral fellow with extensive experience in bacterial genetic engineering, ideally with non-model or fastidious organisms. Candidates should have a strong foundation in molecular cloning, genome editing techniques (e.g., allelic exchange, recombineering, CRISPR-based tools), microbial physiology, and interest in translational microbiology. Experience with microbial transformation, conjugation, electroporation optimization, and synthetic biology design principles will be especially valued.
The successful candidate will work closely with the PI and other postdocs to lead strain development efforts, establish and troubleshoot new genetic tools, and drive MCT platform progress toward translational milestones. This position offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth in synthetic microbiology, cancer immunotherapy, and biotech translation.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Individuals must hold a PhD in microbiology, molecular biology, synthetic biology, bioengineering, or a related field.
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in bacterial genetic engineering, including cloning, genome editing (e.g., allelic exchange, recombineering, CRISPR tools), and transformation of non-model or fastidious microbes. Experience with protein expression and purification is strongly preferred, particularly for the development and testing of microbial therapeutic payloads. Familiarity with microbial physiology, plasmid design, and antibiotic selection/counterselection systems is essential. Additional experience with in vivo models, synthetic biology tools, or translational applications in cancer is a plus. Strong organizational skills, scientific rigor, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are required.

Please refer the Job description for details