We are hiring!
The Signal Transduction and Metabolism Laboratory led by A/Prof Esteban Gurzov is seeking highly motivated post-doctoral researchers to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in obesity and type 2 diabetes. The successful applicants will join the ULB Faculty of Medicine, characterised by an impressive track record in research excellence.
Project description:
Project Area 1:
Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) constitute a superfamily of enzymes that dephosphorylate tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins to oppose the actions of protein tyrosine kinases. Our previous studies and preliminary data suggest that PTPs act as molecular switches for key signalling events in the development of metabolic disorders.
A post-doctoral position is available to fully characterise the activity of key PTPs in metabolic relevant cells in obesity and liver cancer. Importantly, these functions of PTPs make them promising drug candidates for the treatment of metabolic disorders. Thus, our work will provide molecular mechanisms to propose novel pre-clinical approaches to treat these pathologies. He/she will use bioinformatics analysis, gene editing, single cell RNA-Seq, molecular biology and in vitro and in vivo approaches.
Project Area 2:
Hepatocellular carcinoma carries a dismal prognosis and is highly refractory to therapeutic strategies. Therefore, early diagnostic and prevention of liver cancer development in obese patients is the most impactful strategy to treat the pathology.
A post-doctoral position is available to explore diagnostic tools, pharmacology and therapeutic options to diagnose and treat liver cancer. He/she will use bioinformatics analysis, pharmacology, structural biology and in vitro and in vivo approaches.
Required qualifications:
A PhD in relevant areas and experience in bioinformatics is essential.
Laboratory experience in metabolism and/or cancer, animal handling and dissection, and experience in molecular/genomic/biochemical techniques are essential.
Experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, gene editing, primary cell culture, imaging and mouse work is desirable.
Pharma industry experience for project 2 is desirable.
The candidates will have demonstrable track records of research excellence and will be capable of both work independently and collaboratively in a team.
High motivation, flexibility as well as innovate and creative thinking are a must.
Excellent skills in spoken and written English.
Duration: 1 yr in the first instance (renewable).
Applications should include:
- A cover letter describing research interests, previous experience and intended career path.
- CV.
- Contact information for at least two academic references.
Contact:
A/Prof Esteban Gurzov
Head, Signal Transduction and Metabolism Laboratory
e-mail: esteban.gurzov[at]ulb.be