Enzyme therapy to tackle cancer cell signaling
Published: 19/09/2024
Deadline: 01/11/2024
Envisaged Job Starting Date: December 2024
The Heterogeneous Biocatalysis Lab (https://flg802.wixsite.com/flopezgallego) located at the Biomaterials Center CIC biomaGUNE (https://www.cicbiomagune.es/org) in Donostia-San Sebastián (Spain) is looking for a PhD student to join our interdisciplinary team. Research in our lab aims to understand how enzyme systems interplay with biological and industrial environments for biomedical and biotechnological applications. Our research lines are focused on enzyme discovery and enzyme focus on enzyme discovery and formulation using genetic, chemical, and nanotechnological tools.This project will be carried out in collaboration with the Cancer Cell Signaling And Metabolism Lab (https://www.cicbiogune.es/people/acarracedo) led by Dr. Arkaitz Carracedo at the Biology Center CIC bioGUNE in Bilbao (Spain). This group aims at deconstructing the essential requirements of cancer cells with special emphasis on the translation of the acquired knowledge from bench to bedside. In order to define the genuine features of cancer cells, the group focuses on the signalling and metabolic alterations in prostate and breast cancer..

The objective of the project is the development of nanobiocatalytic materials to catalyze the depletion of cancer-related metabolites.

Based on our previous experience, the project will screen several enzyme families and metabolites relevant for cancer progression to find new molecular targets for artificial metabolic intervention in cancer cell biology.

Finally, identified enzymes will be formulated through chemical modification and immobilization techniques to improve their delivery and immune evasion. These biocatalytic formulations wil be evaluated in cell cultures in vitro and in pre-clinical animal models by means of different molecular and cellular biology techniques (i.e. western blot, histology).

Required Education Level:

Master's degree (or currently completing the degree) in a relevant area of  biotechnology, chemistry, biochemistry, biology or related areas is required. Experience in the field of enzymology and metabolism is highly desirable.

The candidate is expected to have an interest in multidisciplinary work and motivation to learn from a diversity of scientific areas. Good interpersonal skills are required, as well as written and oral communication skills in English

Required Skills/Qualifications:

Background in biotechnology, chemistry and/or biochemistry. Knowledge in enzymology and cell culture will be positively considered.

Desirable/evaluable competences for the job position

-Previous experience in enzyme technology laboratories

-Preivous experience in cell culture and cell biology

-Knowledge in bioinformatics for data mining

Duration:

4 year predoctoral contract ( 24 first months CIC biomaGUNE + 24 next months CIC bioGUNE)

According to the contract regulation, he candidate must be enrolled in a doctoral programme on the date of joining the centre.

Informal Inquiries:

Informal requests for additional information can be sent to Fernando López Gallego at flopez@cicbiomagune.es

Applications sent directly to the emails listed above will be NOT be accepted.

Equal opportunities Policy:

CIC biomaGUNE is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to: age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by European, national, or local law.

Open Transparent and Merit Based Recruitment Policy:

You can check here CIC biomaGUNE OTM-R Policy.

How To Apply:

Submit your application with a motivation letter stating why you are interested in this position, your CV, the contact details of two academics who can provide a reference using the "Apply to this Job Offer" button.

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