Postdoctoral Researcher (3D Tumor Models and Bioinformatics) Full-time NEW

The International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines (IMol) Polish Academy of Sciences, is a new and vibrant institute constituted in partnership with University Medical Center Göttingen, Germany and University of Warsaw, Poland. We provide innovative training, guidance and mentoring in an international “open door” environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Short description of the project

The TUNIC project aims to better understand how neutrophils, the most abundant type of white blood cell, impact cancer immunotherapy. Immunotherapies like immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionised cancer treatment, but resistance remains a challenge. The TUNIC project will investigate whether neutrophils can be targeted to enhance immunotherapy efficacy.

Current research on neutrophil function in cancer relies heavily on mouse models, which may not accurately reflect human biology due to significant species-specific differences in neutrophil biology. For example, human neutrophils contain antimicrobial proteins that are absent in mouse neutrophils. Reliance on mouse models has resulted in several failed clinical interventions for human diseases. Similarly, large-scale sequencing datasets, while informative, do not fully elucidate human neutrophil functionality.

To overcome these limitations, the TUNIC project will utilize a “phenotype-first” approach. This involves:

• Creating a 3D “tumor-on-a-chip” (ToC) model: This model will incorporate primary human cells, including neutrophils, tumor cells, CD8+ T-cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts, within a biomimetic 3D hydrogel that replicates the tumor microenvironment.
• Observing neutrophil behaviour: Automated image analysis algorithms will be used to assess how different neutrophil subpopulations directly and indirectly kill tumour cells, and how this behaviour is influenced by other cells in the tumor microenvironment.
• Analysing successful phenotypes: Once a neutrophil subtype with promising anti-tumor activity is identified, advanced bioinformatics-based techniques (sequencing, etc) will be employed to analyse the phenotype within ToC and other 3D models and pinpoint the functional pathways responsible for the observed phenotype.

The TUNIC project expects to identify novel therapeutic targets in neutrophils to boost immunotherapy efficacy in a clinically relevant setting. This research could pave the way for new treatment strategies that overcome immunotherapy resistance in cancer patients.

A bit about the group

At the Laboratory of Advanced Tumor Systems, we combine novel three-dimensional tumor models with primary tumor-derived cells to investigate the therapy-modulating behavior of hard-to-model cell types, such as human neutrophils. Using physiologically relevant systems, we also aim to examine the complex cellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME), with the with the end goal of leveraging these insights to identify novel therapeutic targets for cancer.

Description of the tasks of the project

The hired postdoctoral researcher will be responsible for the establishment of the bioinformatics and spatial sequencing/proteomics analysis pipelines. This involves analysing sequencing (both transcriptomic and proteomic) data and creation and implementation of all the relevant computational tools. In addition, this position will also be responsible for the integration of live video imaging data and transcriptomics data, which will most likely require the development of novel bioinformatics tools and approaches.

List of specific requirements:

• Ph.D. in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related field, obtained not earlier than 2013 (this is a grant requirement – this period can be increased by documented health or maternity-related leaves);
• Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB;
• Hands-on experience in developing and implementing bioinformatics or computer vision pipelines
• Experience in sequencing data analysis (e.g., transcriptomics or proteomics), including emerging technologies (Visium, OPEN-ST, MIBI-TOF, or PhenoCycler) would be desirable;
• Previous experience with either three-dimensional cancer models (organoids, tumour-on-chip, spheroids, etc) or primary neutrophils would be advantageous;
• Excellent command of English, both spoken and written;
• Strong organizational and project management skills;
• Effective communicator with the ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.

We offer:

• Full-time position for up to 3 years with the possibility of extension;
• Competitive salary ca. 9.700 PLN gross/month (for comparison, the Polish minimum salary is ca. 4.700 PLN gross/month and the average salary is ca. 9.000 PLN gross/month, and the Polish academic full professor salary is ca. 9.400 PLN gross/month);
• Work in an active team in an excellent scientific environment;
• Access to the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities;
• Participation in courses and conferences;
• Comprehensive training in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology techniques.

How to apply

Please prepare the following documents (you will be asked to submit the documents merged into one PDF file while filling out the application form linked below):

• Motivation letter;
• CV;
• A list of publications and conferences attended;
• Contact details of previous supervisors for reference (please do not attach generic reference letters, but contact details instead).

Tagged as: Life Sciences