Job title:
Predoctoral researcher R1
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Job description
Offer DescriptionNucleic acid-based therapies demonstrated their early success during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Nucleic acids are a valuable cargo that needs to be delivered, ideally, to a specific tissue or organ within the human body. However, there are several challenges to achieve this effectively, and the use of nanocarriers is necessary.
To work on these exciting challenges and receive interdisciplinary training in this area, we will be hiring PhD candidates with a background in chemistry, biology, physics, genetics, and material science.At CIPF, 2 positions are being offered for the development of 2 PhD theses:DC12
The Vicent Group recently identified polypeptide-based vectors targeting mitochondria. In this PhD thesis, we will continue this research line, focusing on the design of bioresponsive, polypeptide-based polyplexes capable of targeting mitochondria and releasing selected cargoes through specific stimuli, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) or other endogenous triggers. We will develop hybrid polypeptide-polypeptoid copolymers incorporating a polyproline moiety. These proline-rich moieties will be linked to the polyplexes, and their safety and transfection efficiency will be explored in cancer models.Scientific Plan and Expected Results:
- Task 1: Our objective is to prepare a series of non-viral, mitochondria-targeted, polypeptide-based vectors (polyplexes) using the previously identified targeting moieties, aiming to deliver ODN intracellularly, ideally to the mitochondria.
- Task 2: The selected polyplexes/lipoplexes will be evaluated in 2D and 3D cancer cell models to determine their toxicology and transfection efficiency.
- Task 3: Polyplexes with optimal biological behavior will be studied to better understand bio-nano interactions, in collaboration with DC10 at the Max Planck Institute and DC9 at the University of Bordeaux for conformational studies in solution.
- Task 4: Preclinical validation of selected candidates.
Throughout this project, the PhD student will be trained in polymer synthesis, bioconjugation techniques, and comprehensive physicochemical characterization, with a focus on bio-nano interfaces and biological evaluation in relevant preclinical models. The project will also include secondments at the University of Bordeaux and the Max Planck Institute for Biophysics.DC14
In close collaboration with Prof. Perrier at the University of Warwick and Prof. van Hest at the Technical University of Eindhoven (TUE), the PhD candidate will first develop a novel polymeric carrier capable of forming polyplexes and acting as a non-viral vector for gene transfection applications, seeking new therapeutic strategies against advanced solid tumors.
The PhD student will synthesize the polymeric nanocarriers at the University of Warwick, and subsequently at CIPF, will develop the derived polyplexes and validate them in in vitro and in vivo models of metastatic breast cancer. The full characterization of the newly developed polyplexes will be carried out both at CIPF and during a secondment at the Technical University of Eindhoven (Prof. van Hest’s lab).NATPRIME is a European project funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant agreement no. 101168881. It is also co-funded by the UK Guarantee Scheme.Where to apply WebsiteRequirementsResearch Field Chemistry » Other Education Level Master Degree or equivalentAdditional InformationWork Location(s)Number of offers available 2 Company/Institute Principe Felipe Research Center Country Spain State/Province Valencia GeofieldContact State/ProvinceValencia CityValencia WebsiteStreetCalle Eduardo Primo Yúfera, 3 Postal Code46012 E-Mail[email protected]STATUS: EXPIREDShare this page
Expected salary
Location
Valencia
Job date
Sat, 09 Nov 2024 06:42:05 GMT
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