Postdoctoral Researcher in Cancer Cell Plasticity and Functional Genomics

• Investigate the molecular mechanisms and genetic dependencies underlying cancer cell plasticity, using pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as the primary model.
• Understand the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor adaptation and treatment resistance, with a particular focus on how transcriptional and chromatin regulation shape cancer cell identity and behavior.
• Combine functional genomics with advanced experimental cancer models and mechanistic investigation.
• Employ CRISPR-based genetic perturbation and screening, organoid and in vivo models, molecular engineering, and single-cell and spatial genomics.
• Take a leading role in shaping and advancing an ambitious research project within this program.
• Develop original hypotheses, establish experimental strategies, and pursue discoveries that build on your expertise and scientific interests.
• Bridge functional genomics with fundamental cancer biology and develop your own scientific identity within a collaborative and supportive environment.

What they ask Essential Qualifications.

• A PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
• At least one first-author research publication or preprint.
• Strong experimental research experience in one or more of the following areas:
• Functional genomics, particularly CRISPR-based genetic perturbation and screening.
• Cancer biology, including tumor models, cancer cell signaling, or cellular plasticity.
• Chromatin biology and gene regulation, including transcriptional or epigenetic mechanisms.
• In vivo cancer research, including mouse tumor models and associated experimental techniques.
• Advanced molecular and cellular engineering, including viral vector design and production, molecular cloning, or organoid culture.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and critically interpret experiments.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Willingness to apply for competitive personal postdoctoral fellowships, with active support and guidance from the principal investigator.

Valuable Expertise.

• Pooled CRISPR screening, lentiviral or AAV-based delivery systems, or next-generation sequencing library preparation.
• Pancreatic cancer models, orthotopic tumor models, or FELASA certification.
• Single-cell or spatial transcriptomics, chromatin accessibility profiling, genetic barcoding, or lineage tracing.
• Experience with computational analysis of sequencing data using R or Python.
• Previous experience mentoring or supervising students.

• Independent, creative, intellectually curious, and rigorous experimental thinker.
• Takes ownership of research, questions own hypotheses, and understands that convincing biological discoveries require well-designed experiments and critical controls.
• Willing to collaborate, exchange ideas, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to a positive and intellectually stimulating laboratory environment.
• Excited by the opportunity to shape a scientific direction, develop new technologies, establish collaborations, and make a substantial contribution to the identity and success of the group.

• A fully funded three-year postdoctoral position, initially offered as a one-year contract, with extension following a positive evaluation.
• Opportunity to lead an ambitious research project with substantial scientific freedom and direct involvement in shaping its direction.
• Access to outstanding research infrastructure and expertise, including functional genomics, sequencing, single-cell and spatial technologies, advanced imaging, flow cytometry, histology, and animal facilities.
• Close scientific mentorship and active support for career development, including the preparation of competitive personal fellowship applications.
• Opportunities to present research at international conferences, participate in specialized training, and establish collaborations across research networks.
• A collaborative, international, and supportive environment within a young and growing laboratory, with opportunities to mentor students and help shape the group's scientific culture.