Postdoctoral Fellow in Tumour Microenvironment and cancer-associated fibroblast studies

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Postdoctoral Fellow in Tumour Microenvironment and cancer-associated fibroblast studies

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Job description

Offer DescriptionProject: Modulating cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to normalize aberrant vascularization in tumors, and increase drug perfusion and anti-cancer drug efficacy. Funded by ERC CoG ( )Research Team: We are a team of 9 researchers (PI, 4 postdocs, 1 technician, 1 bioinformatician, 2 PhD students), well-funded (AEI, ERC-CoG, AECC) and with clinical collaborations (Hospital Valdecilla, INCLIVA). We are based at IBBTEC, Santander, Spain ( ).Research Interests: The TME Team investigates the multicellular context of solid tumours to understand the mechanisms regulating cancer progression, dissemination and response to therapy. Using a comprehensive approach (cellular/animal models, molecular and functional characterization of models & clinical samples, bioinformatics), we investigate the mechanisms that induce tumour-promoting behaviors in otherwise normal cells, with a particular focus in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs).Project description: This is a subproject within our ERC grant where we investigate how CAFs influence drug perfusion and therapeutic responses. We employ microfluidic organ-on-chip devices to mimic emergent vasculogenesis ( ), and to delineate the cellular and molecular determinants that influence aberrant vasculogenesis and drug perfusion in cancer, and the impact of CAFs in these processes. We have abundant information regarding different aspects of the project. The candidate will design and perform the relevant analyses to validate key findings and finalize the project, as well as delineating follow up studies within the lab´s interests. Other projects within the lab include investigating how CAF heterogeneity influence therapeutic responses, including single-cell RNAseq analyses; studying the interplay CAF:immune cells; and molecular deconstruction of mechanisms affecting CAF behaviour and approaches to target them. This is a great opportunity for motivated researchers to consolidate their trajectory and develop their independence. We will support the candidate in future calls and contribute to his/her professional and scientific development (independent applications, supervision of MSc/PhD students, etc).Candidate profile: We are looking for a motivated candidate with initiative and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment. The candidate must have previous experience in molecular cell biology and be proficient in microscopy-based techniques (i.e. time-lapse, confocal, super-resolution). The candidate is expected to lead the project, design and execute high quality experiments, write scientific reports, assist in the supervision of the team and participate in ongoing research projects.Specific tasks: (1) generate microfluidic devices to monitor emergent vasculogenesis (see figures on the left and ); (2) advanced microscopy-based analysis of structures (life-cell imaging, 3D); (3) advanced cell culture (HUVECs/CAFs, 2D/3D) and functional characterization (angiogenesis, ECM remodeling); (4) molecular characterization (RNA, WB, secretome); (4) generate reports and actively contribute to manuscripts.Requirements: (i) a PhD in related subject (e.g. cancer biology, angiogenesis); (ii) wet-lab and microcopy-based experience; (iii) Spanish/EU citizenship. Candidates will be evaluated based on scientific excellence (publication record with leading role), creative-thinking, expertise in related research techniques, knowledge of cancer biology, experience in international institutions, and oral & written communication skills (English).Application: Interested candidates that met the requirements, please send a motivation letter (describing previous research, interests, and interest in joining our team), a career summary document (describing relevant highlights i.e. articles, funding, international stays, career plan), and CV to Fernando Calvo ( , Subject “Job Offer May 2025”). Those with reference letters can send them. Documents should be sent in English. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a videoconference interview. The selected candidate will have to be registered in the to formalize the contract.Starting date: Summer 2025. The position will remain open until filled. Duration: 2.5 year with possible extension. Process: interviews and selection will be performed upon reception of applications until the position is filled.Where to apply E-mail[email protected]RequirementsResearch Field Biological sciences » Biology Education Level PhD or equivalentSkills/QualificationsREQUIRED

• Documented experience in molecular cell biology methods including primary cell culture and genetic modifications; assays to monitor cell behavior (invasion, proliferation, death, interaction); DNA/RNA purification, Western blotting, RT-qPCR, etc.
• Documented experience in advanced microscopy-based methods including confocal/superresolution, timelapse, and associated structure-, intensity- and interaction-based analyses.
• A good knowledge of cancer biology and tumor microenvironment.
• A good track record of publishing peer-reviewed academic papers.
• Demonstrated ability to independently plan, develop, and carry out high-quality, rigorous research.
• Demonstrated ability to manage resources and time efficiently, report research findings, and consistently meet deadlines.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, with the ability to convey scientific results effectively.
• Ability to work efficiently both independently and as a member of a team.
• Creativity and critical thinking to troubleshoot experimental challenges and devise new approaches.

DESIRABLE

• Experience in 3D co-culture systems with artificial ECMs, previous experience in CAF or angiogenesis studies.
• Experience in PDMS-based microfabrication (e.g. microfluidic devices).

Specific RequirementsWork duties:The postdoctoral researcher will be involved in the characterization of the interplay between CAFs and endothelial cells employing cell biology approaches including advanced co-culture microfluidic devices and other conventional approaches for cellular and molecular characterization. The researcher will maintain selected cell lines and genetically modify them; generate PDMS-based devices containing CAFs and endothelial cells and monitor their behavior employing microscopy-based approaches; and analyze results and interpret findings. The researcher is expected to plan and carry out experiments independently with ad hoc supervision, critically analyze data, be capable of troubleshooting, contribute to figure preparation and manuscript writing, and participate in national and international conferences to present research from the project.Specific requirements:The selected candidate will have to be registered in the ( ) to formalize the contract.Languages ENGLISH Level GoodResearch Field Biological sciences » Biology Years of Research Experience 4 – 10Additional InformationBenefitsThe position is a full-time, fixed-term employment of 2.5 years with possible extension.Eligibility criteriaPhD in Cancer Biology or a related field, obtained within the last 7 years at the time of hiring (candidates with PhDs awarded over 5 years ago due to career breaks will also be considered, but this must be noted in the CV or cover letter). Highly qualified candidates currently completing their PhD are encouraged to apply.Selection processHow to apply?Interested candidates that met the requirements, please send your application as a single PDF to Fernando Calvo ( , Subject “Job Offer May 2025”). The application must contain:

• CV (maximum of 2 pages)
• List of publications
• Motivation letter (maximum of 2 pages) outlining a general description of past research experience, future research interests, methodological knowhow, why you are interested in this position, relevant highlights (i.e. articles, funding, international stays) and contact information for three references including main supervisors
• Copy of the doctoral degree certificate and other certificates/grades that you wish to be considered

Documents should be sent in English.Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a videoconference interview. The selected candidate will have to be registered in the to formalize the contract.Process: interviews and selection will be performed upon reception of applications until the position is filled.Starting date: Summer 2025. The position will remain open until filled.Website for additional job detailsWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnologia de Cantabria (IBBTEC) Country Spain State/Province Cantabria City Santander Postal Code 39001 Street Albert Einstein 22, PCTCAN GeofieldContact State/ProvinceCantabria CitySantander WebsiteStreetAlbert Einstein 22, PCTCAN Postal Code39011STATUS: EXPIREDShare this page

Expected salary

Location

Santander, Cantabria

Job date

Thu, 29 May 2025 01:18:58 GMT

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