Post Doctoral Scholar

Position Summary

Join a research environment at the forefront of AI, cancer immunology, and precision medicine. The Ohio State Universitys Department of Biomedical Informatics (BMI) and the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO) are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scholar to work under the mentorship of Dr. Anjun Maa leader in deep learning, single-cell analysis, and computational oncology.

Directed by Dr. Anjun Ma in the Department of Biomedical Informatics at The Ohio State University, the MathematiX, TRanslational bioInformatiX, and omiX Lab (MaTRIX Lab) develops advanced computational and AI methodologies to decode complex biological systems and accelerate discoveries into translational impact. The lab integrates deep learning, graph-based modeling, and multi-omics analytics, including bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics, to uncover molecular mechanisms in cancer, immunology, and more. With a strong translational focus, the MaTRIX Lab works closely with experimental scientists and clinicians to identify novel biomarkers, optimize therapeutic strategies, and improve disease diagnosis and prognosis. By bridging mathematical modeling, bioinformatics, and real-world patient data, the lab is committed to transforming high-dimensional biomedical datasets into actionable insights that directly inform precision medicine and guide the development of new diagnostics and treatments.

You will be part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary ecosystem, collaborating with experts in AI, immunology, genomics, and computational biology at OSU BMI, PIIO, and The OSU Comprehensive Cancer Center James (OSUCCC-James). In this role, you will develop cutting-edge deep learning and computational approaches to integrate high-throughput sequencing data, with a strong emphasis on single-cell and spatial omics. Youll have access to exceptional computational infrastructure, rich multi-omics datasets, and translational collaborations that bridge discovery to clinical impact.

About the Pelotonia Institute for Immuno-Oncology (PIIO)

Led by world renowned cancer immunologist, Dr. Zihai Li, the PIIO is a comprehensive, bench-to-bedside research powerhouse within The OSUCC-James, dedicated to harnessing the bodys immune system to prevent, treat, and cure cancer. Established through a landmark investment from Pelotonia, the PIIO unites world-class immunologists, oncologists, computational scientists, and translational researchers under one roof. Research spans from the most fundamental mechanisms of immune regulation to first-in-human clinical trialscreating a direct pipeline from discovery to patient benefit. The PIIO offers an exceptionally collaborative and resource-rich environment for innovative immuno-oncology research.

About the Center for AI in Immuno-Oncology (CATION)

Within the PIIO, the Center for AI in Immuno-Oncology (CATION)directed by Dr. Qin Ma Mais redefining how artificial intelligence transforms cancer research and treatment. CATION develops advanced machine learning and deep learning tools to decode the complexity of immunetumor interactions, integrate multi-omics data at scale, and predict patient responses to therapy. The center works at the cutting edge of foundation models, spatial omics analytics, and computational pathology, with a mission to turn massive, heterogeneous datasets into actionable insights for precision immuno-oncology. Collaborating closely with both computational and clinical teams, CATION accelerates the translation of AI discoveries into real-world therapeutic strategies.

About the Immune Monitoring and Discovery Platform (IMDP)

Also within the PIIO, the Immune Monitoring and Discovery Platform (IMDP) provides state-of-the-art immuno-profiling technologies to support groundbreaking research in immune-oncology. The IMDP integrates single-cell sequencing, high-parameter flow cytometry, CyTOF, multiplex spatial imaging, and advanced proteomics to map the immune landscape with unprecedented resolution. As a PIIO postdoctoral scholar, you will have access to IMDPs platforms, data pipelines, and technical expertiseempowering you to interrogate the immune system in health and disease at a level of detail impossible just a few years ago. The IMDP serves as a regional and national reference center for cutting-edge immune analytics, making it an invaluable partner for data-driven discovery.

About the Department of Biomedical Informatics (BMI)

Housed within The Ohio State University College of Medicine, the Department of Biomedical Informatics (BMI) is a leader in harnessing data science to advance biomedical discovery, clinical care, and population health. BMI faculty and trainees develop and apply cutting-edge computational methods, artificial intelligence, and data integration strategies to transform complex biomedical data into actionable knowledge. The departments research spans genomics, imaging, clinical informatics, and public health, with strengths in single-cell and spatial omics analytics, precision medicine, and AI-driven health solutions. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the College of Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and nationwide partners, BMI is accelerating the translation of computational innovation into improved patient outcomes and public health impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop novel computational and AI-driven methods for integrative multi-omics analysis.
• Lead analyses of single-cell and spatial omics to dissect tumorimmune interactions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in immunology, genomics, oncology, and AI.
• Disseminate findings through high-impact publications and presentations at national/international conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Biostatistics, Computer Science, Bioinformatics, or related field.
• Strong critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills, with an active approach to learning new concepts and methods.
• Strong interest or background in AI, bioinformatics, cancer genomics, or statistical genetics.
• Experience with deep learning frameworks, high-dimensional data analysis, or multi-omics integration is highly valued.
• Commitment to collaborative, rigorous, and innovative research.
• Excellent communication abilities, including clear written and spoken English.
• Must successfully complete a background check; a pre-employment physical and drug screen may be required.

Why OSUCCC James?

The OSUCCC James is the only cancer program in the U.S. that unites:

• An NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center
• A top-ranked academic medical center
• A freestanding cancer hospital on the campus of one of the nations largest public universities

This unique integration fuels breakthrough science, world-class training, and patient care that sets new standards.

To Apply: Include a cover letter, CV, and contact information for 3 references with your Workday application.