Job title: postdoctoral researcher in acute myeloid leukemia metabolic vulnerabilities
Project duration: 3 years
Project description: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a devastating hematological malignancy characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal myeloid cells. Despite several treatment options, the overall survival rate of AML remains alarmingly low, highlighting the urgent need for innovative therapeutic approaches. The genetic landscape of AML is complex and diverse, with mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, and epigenetic alterations contributing to its onset and progression. Understanding these genetic drivers is critical to the development of targeted therapies that can improve outcomes for AML patients. In particular, mutations in the CEBPA gene, which encodes the essential transcription factor C/EBPα, are present in 5-10% of AML cases. Recent research highlights the pivotal role of metabolic reprogramming in AML pathogenesis, particularly the involvement of C/EBPα in driving metabolic changes essential for AML cell survival and proliferation.
Project goals: The proposed research aims to identify actionable metabolic vulnerabilities in CEBPA-mutant AML, and to evaluate the potential of targeting C/EBPα as a therapeutic strategy, using orthogonal genetic modeling coupled to a comprehensive multi-omics approach.
Expected outcomes: This research aims to make significant contributions to the field, including the identification of novel therapeutic targets and the development of treatments specifically tailored to CEBPA-mutant AML. In addition, this work could provide invaluable insights into the role of metabolic reprogramming in AML and potentially pave the way for novel therapies in other cancer types that rely on metabolic alterations for their survival and proliferation.
Qualifications:
Ph.D. in molecular biology, cancer biology or related field.
Strong background in hematological malignancies and/or metabolic reprogramming.
Proficiency in genetic manipulation techniques (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9), multiomics approaches, and in vivo models.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
Application process: Interested candidates should submit the following to jerome.tamburinibonnefoy@unige.ch
· Cover letter detailing research interests and relevant experience.
· Curriculum vitae including a list of publications.
· Contact information for at least two professional references.
Start date: November 1, 2023. The position is already funded for 3 years (SNF).
Place: Geneva University medical center (CMU), Geneva, Switzerland.
Salary and benefits: Competitive salary commensurate with experience and access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
We look forward to welcoming a motivated and dedicated researcher to our team to advance our understanding of AML and develop innovative therapeutic approaches.