- Apply by date - Dec 11th @ 5pm
Title: Postdoc Researcher – Breast Cancer Now
Department: Department of Surgery
Tenure: 3 years
Location: RCSI, Saint Stephens Green, Dublin 2
Reporting to: Professor Leonie Young
Salary: Level 2 on the Postdoctoral Researcher scale/depending on prior experience
Overall purpose of this position
Breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) are a frequent and aggressive form of metastatic spread; with limited treatment options. To better understand potential drivers and novel targets, genomic, transcriptomic and clinical data from a cohort of 45 primary tumours with paired brain metastasis has been comprehensively characterised. Based on preliminary data we hypothesize that the optimal targeting of the homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) pathways may yield improved clinical outcome in patients with BCBMs. The objective of this Breast Cancer Now funded position is to determine if brain metastasis are sensitive to drug inhibition using PARP inhibitors.
The HRD signature will be validated in an independent patient cohort. Using patient-derived BCBM organoids and tumour explants the efficacy of PARP inhibitors will be assessed. In parallel, the blood-brain-barrier penetrance will be evaluated utilizing BBB 3D biometric biohybrid models and in vivo studies. The molecular correlates of response to PARP inhibitors will be determined in patients by performing mutational, gene expression and IHC studies.
Specifically, the duties of the post are:
- To lead a study determining the sensitivity of breast cancer brain metastases to drug inhibition using PARP inhibitors
- To independently plan, execute, analyse, and manage multiple experiments simultaneously
- To maintain accurate, detailed records of experimental data and protocols
- To create visually impactful representations of data for publications and presentations
- To work in a team environment and, as needed, train new personnel and mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students as required
- Contribute to the preparation of high-impact peer review scientific publications and to disseminate research findings at national and international meetings
Qualifications:
- The candidate should have a higher degree (PhD or equivalent) in the area of cancer research/molecular biology or relevant area.
Knowledge & Experience
- Experience in routine molecular biology techniques such as western blot, PCR, genome editing and tissue culture, immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy
- Bioinformatic and statistical analysis skills
Application Process
Please apply online through the RCSI careers pages no later than 5pm on Dec 11th with your CV and Covering Letter. Informal Enquiries can be directed to fionabane@rcsi.ie
https://my.corehr.com/pls/coreportal_rcsip/erq_jobspec_details_form.jobspec?p_id=031332
Job description: Post Doctoral Researcher – Surgery