Postdoctoral fellowship | Functional Genomics of Cancer Immunity laboratory
One postdoctoral fellowship is available in the Functional Genomics of Cancer Immunity laboratory, led by Dr Giuseppe Leuzzi https://www.ifom.eu/it/ricerca-cancro/ricercatori/giuseppe-leuzzi.php
Our Research
Cancer cells are not invisible to the immune system—but many find ways to hide. Some exploit DNA damage response (DDR) pathways to suppress immune activation, while others accumulate mutations that reshape their interaction with immune cells. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for developing new therapies that enhance the immune system’s ability to target tumors.
The Leuzzi Lab investigates how DNA repair mechanisms and genome instability shape tumor-immune interactions, with the goal of uncovering novel strategies to enhance cancer immunotherapy. Our lab employs an interdisciplinary approach, combining CRISPR-based genome engineering, high-throughput functional genomics, multi-omics analyses, and in vivo models to dissect these critical processes.
The position:
We are seeking a highly motivated, independent postdoctoral researcher to join our team. The successful candidate will thrive in our collaborative, international research environment, which offers access to cutting-edge technologies and strong institutional support. This position provides an exceptional opportunity to develop innovative projects at the intersection of cancer biology and tumor immunology, gains hands-on experience in high-throughput functional genomics while advancing your scientific career in a highly supportive and stimulating setting.
What you will do:
-
Design and execute CRISPR-knockout (CRISPR-KO) and CRISPR-mediated base editing screens to investigate novel targets and biomarkers in cancer immunity.
-
Perform experimental approaches to study DNA damage response (DDR) pathways and their role in tumor-immune interactions.
-
Generate, analyze, and interpret data to drive discovery and publications.
-
Drafting scientific manuscript and contribute to the overall preparation of research for publication.
-
Collaborate with other laboratories.
-
Attend national and international meetings to present research findings and learn the latest advance in the field.
Requirements:
-
PhD in Molecular biology, Cancer biology, Genetics, or related area;
-
Self-motivation and a curiosity-driven mindset;
-
Strong expertise in molecular biology skills (e.g, cloning, Western blot, RTq-PCR);
-
Extensive experience in mammalian cell culture and stable cell lines generation;
-
Strong publication record, including at least one publication in the last three years with the applicant as principal author;
-
Expertise in flow cytometry and immunophenotyping is (preferred but not required);
-
Expertise in in vivo study is (preferred but not required);
Position Details:
Competitive compensation package based on qualifications and experience, following institutional guidelines for postdoctoral researchers.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit the following materials as a single PDF to Giuseppe Leuzzi at giuseppe.leuzzi@ifom.eu:
-
Curriculum vitae;
-
Contact details for two references;
-
Cover letter describing your previous research, your research interests and motivation for joining our team;