A PhD position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Isidro Sánchez-García, a CSIC full professor based at the Cancer Research Institute in Salamanca, Spain. The laboratory is primarily focused on deciphering the mechanisms responsible for clonal evolution with the aim of leukemia prevention (Cancer Discovery, 2015; Nature, 2017; Cancer Research, 2017; Cancer Research, 2018; EMBOJ, 2018; Leukemia, 2018; Trends in Cancer, 2018; Nature Communications, 2019; Blood, 2020; Nature Reviews Immunology, 2021; Trends Immunology, 2021; Blood, 2021; Cancer Research, 2022).

 

Project
The specific project aims to characterize the initial changes responsible for the creation of an irreversibly transformed cell state by determining the nature of oncogenic environment(s) and synergistically interacting host factors and then modelling and characterizing the impact of oncogenic environment(s) on genetically predisposed hosts and validating the results in prospective studies in human children. This knowledge can revolutionize the field of leukemia by preventing its appearance and the project will have a major impact and open the way to new therapies for leukemia. The over-arching goal is to use the gained insights to make important contributions to the fundamental understanding of key mechanisms in leukemia, which will lead to a paradigm shift in the clinical treatment of leukemia.

The Project offers a unique opportunity to mechanistically dissect immune-evasion mechanisms using both mouse models and clinical samples for validation studies and experimentation in humanized settings.

 

What we offer
A clinically relevant research project with high potential for therapeutic translation in an inspiring international research team. The successful candidate will work in close collaboration with other researchers in our group and also interact with external collaborators, including clinical and industrial partners.The laboratory has access to state-of-the-art facilities thus offering a vibrant and highly stimulating workenvironment.

Moreover, the PhD student will have ample opportunities to participate in international organized training courses, networking events, sectorial meetings and the possibility to expand expertise through short stays in the laboratories of other collaborators.

The institute is located in the heart of Salamanca providing a very stimulating, friendly and international environment. The working language is either Spanish or English.

 

Qualifications and Experience
We are looking for a talented, highly motivated and dedicated candidate, with a strong interest in translational research. A solid theoretical background in cancer biology is required together with cell culture and Flow Cytometry experience will be highly valued. A Master
degree is requested, either finished in 2021 or expected to finish by September 2022.

Please send your CV, a statement of prior experience/research interests (1 page max) and the contact details of two references to isg@usal.es.

 

Deadline for applications: May 31th, 2022.
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.