PIF2024 - Mitochondria and innate immunity in cancer cells (PID2023-147125OB-I00)

Our research focuses on how reprogramming mitochondrial metabolism in tumor cells modifies their immunogenicity, rendering the generated tumors more susceptible to immune system activity. The selected candidate will join a team led by a young PhD to investigate: 1. The signaling pathways linking mitochondrial metabolism rewiring with immunogenicity. 2. The interaction of oncogenes (such as K-Ras) with mitochondrial metabolism, and 3.The identification of binders of specific mitochondrial transporters. To address these questions, we will employ advanced molecular biology methods, omics analyses (bulk or single-cell RNA sequencing, ATAC-seq, quantitative proteomics…), CRISPR-based gene silencing, spectral flow cytometry, advanced imaging techniques, etc. A significant portion of the research will involve animal models. Applicants should have completed a master’s degree in biomedicine, molecular biology, or a related field. In addition to their CV and academic records, candidates are encouraged to submit a document (at least, 2-3 pages) outlining their vision on a topic related to the association between metabolism in cancer cells and tumor immunity, and/or the role of mitochondrial function in innate immunity and inflammation in tumors. Contact me at smanes@cnb.csic.es for more details and to be advised for the next steps. See also the attached file.