Hao Laboratory | Department of Internal Medicine | Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
The laboratory of Dr. Qiongyu Hao in the Department of Internal Medicine at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU), Los Angeles, CA, invites applications from highly motivated researchers to join a dynamic and collaborative research team. Our laboratory investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which exosomes shape the tumor microenvironment and drive cancer progression.
Research Focus
Exosomes and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoscale vesicles released into the extracellular milieu that serve as critical mediators of cell-cell communication. By transferring a diverse repertoire of molecular cargo — including RNA, DNA, lipids, and proteins — exosomes coordinate autocrine and paracrine signaling that promotes tumor metastasis across multiple cancer types. In the tumor microenvironment (TME), exosomes secreted by diverse cell populations represent an emerging class of regulators of cancer progression. Current research spans Exosome Biology, Tumor Microenvironment, and Exosome Engineering — We study the regulatory roles of exosomes and extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer development, metastasis, and intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment.
Cancer Metabolism and Drug Discovery — In parallel, we investigate how metabolic reprogramming drives breast cancer progression, with the goal of identifying exploitable metabolic vulnerabilities for therapeutic intervention. In parallel, we pursue the identification and mechanistic characterization of small-molecule anti-cancer compounds, integrating metabolic insights with drug discovery to advance novel targeted therapeutic strategies.
Our laboratory is supported by the RCMI AXIS Research Infrastructure Core, which provides access to state-of-the-art platforms, including next-generation sequencing, imaging flow cytometry, super-resolution confocal microscopy, microfluidics-based EV isolation, stable isotope labeling mass spectrometry (SILAC), live-cell imaging, and small-animal in vivo imaging and modeling.
About CDU
Founded in 1966, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science is a private, non-profit institution located in South Los Angeles. CDU is committed to cultivating diverse health professions leaders dedicated to social justice and health equity for underserved communities, through excellence in education, research, clinical service, and community engagement.
Qualifications
Candidates with a strong training background in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline are encouraged to apply. Prior experience with extracellular vesicle research or cancer metabolism biology is advantageous but not required.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter summarizing their research interests and background, along with a current CV, to:
Qiongyu Hao, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Department of Internal Medicine Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science 1731 E. 120th St., Los Angeles, CA 90059