Chen Lab – Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics in Bladder Cancer Research
Research Field
Dr. Chen received his bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from National Taiwan University. Following this, he earned his Ph.D. in 2012 from the Pharmacological Institute at National Taiwan University under the supervision of Prof. Che-Min Teng, and continued his postdoctoral research focusing on epigenetic regulation in cancer and the discovery of novel HDAC inhibitors. He then joined Dr. Yun Yen’s laboratory as a postdoctoral fellow to develop novel anticancer agents targeting FGFR signaling pathways. In 2016, Dr. Chen transitioned to an academic role as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine at Taipei Medical University (TMU). Dr. Chen is also the administrative teacher of International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, TMU.
Professional experience
- Associate professor, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University (Aug 2020~present)
- Assistant professor, Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University (Mar 2016~July 2020)
- Postdoctoral Research at Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University (Mar 2014-Mar 2016)
- Postdoctoral Research at Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica (July 2013-Feb 2014)
- Postdoctoral Research at Pharmacology Institute, National Taiwan University (Feb 2012-June 2013)
Professional membership
- Active Member of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
- Permanent Member of the Pharmacological Society in Taiwan
- Permanent Member of the Natural Medicine Society of Taiwan
Training as a pharmacologist, Dr. Chen is dedicated to the research of cancer biology and drug discovery. His work has focused on developing novel therapeutic targets and small molecule compounds for treating bladder cancer. Dr. Chen has identified two therapeutic targets in bladder cancer: PIK3C3 and CK1δ. He has successfully developed MPT0L145, a first-in-class PIK3C3/FGFR inhibitor, which displays promising potential for clinical applications. Dr. Chen has also contributed to the understanding of natural compounds with anticancer properties, such as Cucurbitacin E and Stellettin B, which induce apoptosis and autophagy in cancer cells. Currently, Dr. Chen’s research team also focus on identifying the therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms of natural products in pediatric high-grade glioma. Dr. Chen's dedication to research and education continues to inspire students and colleagues alike. His ongoing efforts aim to translate these scientific discoveries into effective clinical treatments for cancer patients. Chen lab welcome potential young scientists to join the research team.
- Identifying potential drug targets for the treatment of bladder cancer.
- Developing innovative anti-bladder cancer therapy and elucidating the molecular mechanisms of natural products
- Discovering novel anti-bladder cancer therapy by targeting metabolic reprogramming.
- Outstanding Faculty Teaching Award, Taipei Medical University College of Medicine
- Young Scholar Research Award, Taipei Medical University
- PhD, Pharmacological Institute, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan (2012)
- BS, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan (2005)
Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
- Participate in laboratory research projects under faculty supervision
- Design and conduct experiments related to anticancer drug mechanisms
- Perform cell-based assays, molecular analyses, and data interpretation
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and research documentation
- Participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, and research discussions
- Prepare a written research report and deliver an oral presentation at the end of the internship
- Collaborate with laboratory members in a multidisciplinary research environment
Preferred Intern Educational Level
Required Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in or holding a Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, or related fields.
- Strong interest in cancer research, pharmacology, and translational medicine
- Prior laboratory experience and readiness for independent research training
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a research team
- Good command of English (reading, writing, and scientific communication)
- Strong sense of responsibility, research integrity, and professionalism
Skill sets or Qualities
Experimental / Wet-lab Skills (Preferred):
- Mammalian cell culture
- Drug treatment and cytotoxicity assays
- Molecular biology or biochemical assays (Western blotting/qPCR/flow cytometry)
- Immunocytochemistry and basic microscopy techniques
- Western blot, PCR, microscopy, or flow cytometry
Computational / Analytical Skills (if applicable):
- Data analysis using R, Python, or similar tools
- Basic statistics
- Experience with bioinformatics, pharmacometrics, or modeling is a plus
Academic & Professional Skills:
- Ability to critically read and interpret scientific literature
- Scientific writing or presentation experience
- Strong time management and problem-solving skills
- Willingness to learn new experimental and analytical techniques
Personal Qualities We Value
- Strong motivation for research and intellectual curiosity
- Willingness to ask questions and engage in discussion
- Persistence and resilience when facing experimental challenges
- Respect for teamwork, diversity, and academic ethics
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the internship, participants are expected to:
• Strengthen experimental and analytical skills in molecular pharmacology
• Gain in-depth understanding of anticancer drug mechanisms
• Develop independence in research planning and execution
• Enhance scientific communication and presentation abilities
• Build strong academic foundations for future PhD or R&D careers