PhD student (Biology, biomedical sciences)

Responsabilities

Context

This project focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of radiotherapy resistance and finding new combination therapies to effectively eradicate solid tumors. Our hypothesis is that lipid composition of tumors and the expression of lipid-ROS detoxification systems may influence tumor response to radiotherapy. Targeting lipids, ferroptosis resistance, or mitochondria might be more efficient than applying radiation therapy alone.

The work will be carried out mainly in the LARN laboratory at the University of Namur and at the University of Liège. The applicant will carry out a PhD thesis and identify metabolic modulators of the response to radiotherapy (both using X-rays and protons). In particular he/she will work on intrinsic and acquired radioresistance on a set of breast cancer cell models, well characterized in our labs. Findings will be generalized on HNSCC cancer cells. In a second step, the applicant will investigate irradiation-induced phenotypic changes in cancer cells (stemness and tumor recurrence).

The applicant should:

• Be able to work with mammalian cells and carry out usual biological assays ;

• Be familiar with flow cytometry, proteomics, metabolomics ;

• Be able to work with animals and develop tumor models.

Profile

Applicant should have a master degree in biology, or biomedical sciences.

Skills and qualities required: • Experimenter; • Good knowledge in cell biology; • Certificate in animal science (FELASA B); • Fluent in English

Additional assets: • Interpersonal skills; • Preliminary experience on irradiation devices; • Analytical and synthetical mind; • Adaptation and organization; • Driving license

Additional information

Prof. Anne-Catherine Heuskin, LARN laboratory Tel: 081 / 72.54.77 - Email: anne-catherine.heuskin@unamur.be

Contract : Biology or biomedical sciences PhD student position for 6 months which can be extended with another 1.5 years after positive evaluation.

Starting date : 01/11/2023

Type of funding : PDR-FNRS grant

Remarks

The application, consisting of a CV, a motivation letter and the contact details of two reference persons, must be sent to Prof. Anne-Catherine Heuskin, by e-mail by September 30th 2023 at the latest.

The selection procedure will be organized as follows: analysis of CVs and hearing by a recruitment and selection committee.

The human resources management policy of the University of Namur is based on respect for the equal rights and equal treatment of all. Diversity is articulated around different axes, including gender, disability, origin, beliefs, age, sexual orientation, and so on. The University of Namur is also a signatory of the Charter of Diversity.