PhD student in Cancer Research

Background

The immune system plays a pivotal role in identifying and eradicating cancer cells. Cytotoxic lymphocytes employ a specialized cell-to-cell interface known as the immunological synapse (IS) to effectively eliminate their targets. Recently, our research group has made a significant breakthrough by demonstrating that cancer cells can evade natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytotoxicity by polarizing their actin cytoskeleton towards the IS. Our group's mission is to delve deeper into the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon and to translate our findings into actionable strategies aimed at restoring a potent anti-tumor immune response. 

To learn more about our research, please visit our website: https://www.lih.lu/en/research-scope/research-department/department-of-cancer-research/cytoskeleton-and-cancer-progression/

PhD student project

The PhD project aims to expand upon our initial discoveries regarding actin-mediated tumor immune evasion to encompass a broader range of cytotoxic immune cells, including cytotoxic T cells, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified NK cells, and CAR-modified T cells. Additionally, the project will investigate the influence of critical factors of the tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia and reactive oxygen species (ROS), on cancer cells' capacity to remodel their actin cytoskeleton and evade cytotoxic immune cells. The selected PhD candidate will be enrolled in the Doctoral School in Science and Engineering at the University of Luxembourg and will be affiliated with the state-of-the-art Doctoral Training Unit CANBIO2, which comprises a total of 19 PhD candidates. The candidate will benefit from a highly structured scientific environment and a comprehensive framework of training opportunities. 

More details about CANBIO2 can be found at: https://www.lih.lu/en/research-support/doctoral-training/canbio2/ 

Related references 

- Al Absi et al. Actin Cytoskeleton Remodeling Drives Breast Cancer Cell Escape from Natural Killer-Mediated Cytotoxicity. Cancer Res. 2018;78(19):5631-43.
- Wurzer et al. Intrinsic Resistance of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells to NK Cell-Mediated Lysis Can Be Overcome In Vitro by Pharmacological Inhibition of Cdc42-Induced Actin Cytoskeleton Remodeling. Front Immunol. 2021;12:619069.
- Ockfen et al. Actin cytoskeleton remodeling at the cancer cell side of the immunological synapse: good, bad, or both? Front Immunol. 2023;14:1276602. 

Key Skills, Experience and Qualifications

We are seeking excellent and highly motivated candidates holding a Master’s degree in a field related to oncology and/or immunology. Very good English language skills are required. All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.

How to apply

Applications including a cover letter and a curriculum vitae should ideally be sent through our CANBIO2 website (possibly by email) before 1st April 2024.

Contact
Clément Thomas, PhD
Group Leader, Cytoskeleton and Cancer Progression
Luxembourg Institute of Health
Department of Cancer Research
Clement.Thomas@lih.lu

In Short...

• Contract type :  Fixed-term contract (CDD)
• Contract duration :  36 months
• Work hours :  40h/week
• Location :  rue Nicolas-Ernest Barblé 6 - 1210 Luxembourg
• Start date :  ASAP
• Ref :  MC/PhDCCP0224/CT/CCP