Postdoctoral Research Position

About this position

[Background of the recruitment and description of the project]

• Background of the recruitment and description of the project

Our laboratory focuses on refractory adult and pediatric cancers, aiming to elucidate mechanisms of tumorigenesis, identify novel molecular targets, and develop innovative therapeutic strategies.

We are particularly interested in the RUNX family of transcription factors (RUNX1/2/3), which play key roles in tumor growth, metastasis, and immune evasion. Based on this concept, we have developed a novel therapeutic strategy termed the “CROX strategy” (Cluster Regulation Of RUNX).

Our research spans from basic molecular mechanisms to translational applications, including preclinical validation using patient-derived organoids and the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. We are also developing a novel RUNX inhibitor, Chb-M', with strong therapeutic potential. The Division of Oncogenic Regulation at the Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team in cancer biology and drug discovery research.

• details of the business

The Division of Oncogenic Regulation originated from the former Division of Biochemistry. Following the transfer of Dr. Takehiko Kamijo to Saitama Cancer Center, Dr. Yoshitaka Fudetaka (currently Director of the Research Institute, Chiba Cancer Center) joined as Division Chief from the National Cancer Center. In 2022, Yasuhiko Kamikubo was appointed Division Chief from Kyoto University.

Since then, the division has been actively advancing research in close collaboration with Chiba Cancer Center Hospital. Our research focuses on refractory adult and pediatric cancers, with the goal of understanding how cancers develop, identifying new therapeutic targets, and creating innovative treatments. We study a wide range of cancers, including leukemia and major solid tumors, and aim to build a foundation for next-generation precision medicine based on shared mechanisms across cancer types.

We have found that RUNX transcription factors (RUNX1/2/3) are frequently overexpressed in many cancers and contribute to tumor growth, metastasis, and immune evasion. Based on this discovery, we proposed the "CROX strategy" (Cluster Regulation Of RUNX), a new approach that enables comprehensive suppression of RUNX activity. Preclinical studies have shown promising results, suggesting its potential as a broadly applicable cancer treatment strategy.

Currently, we are evaluating a novel RUNX inhibitor, Chb-M', using patient-derived organoids and the chick CAM model, with the aim of advancing its application in personalized cancer therapy.

[Work content and job description]

■ Responsibilities

Investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis in adult and pediatric cancers

Analyze RUNX-dependent transcriptional regulation (RUNX1/2/3) and its role in cancer progression

Conduct drug discovery research based on the CROX strategy (Cluster Regulation Of RUNX)

Evaluate the mechanism of action and therapeutic efficacy of a novel RUNX inhibitor (Chb-M')

Perform preclinical studies using cancer cell lines, mouse models, patient-derived organoids, and CAM assays

Promote collaborative and translational research in partnership with clinical teams

Prepare scientific manuscripts and present research findings at conferences

• Assigned department

Existing departments

[Work location]

• Address

260-8717 Chiba 666-2 Nitona-cho, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8717, Japan

[Number of hired]

Number of hired:1 person(s)

Hiring date:2026-06-01 00:00:00

Starting date:2026-06-01 00:00:00