Post-Doctoral Fellow in Brain Tumor Immunology

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join an ambitious, high-impact project unravelling the interplay between allergic inflammation and immune responses in glioblastoma (GBM). Supported by the Fond National de la Recherche and Fondation Cancer Luxembourg, this position provides the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in a supportive and multidisciplinary team within a multicultural research environment in the heart of Europe.

Background & Objectives: GBM is a devastating brain tumour with limited therapeutic options due to its highly immunosuppressive microenvironment. Recent epidemiological evidences and murine models suggest that allergic inflammation may counteract this immunosuppression and improve immune responses. Our previous work (DOI: 10.1111/all.15545) demonstrated the anti-tumoral effects of allergic inflammation in GBM. Building on this foundation, this project aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms contributing to the reversal of GBM-associated immunosuppression. The approach involves first conducting multi-omics analyses on experimental mouse models, followed by integrating these findings with existing datasets from allergy and glioma patient cohorts. These datasets have been generated by our collaborators at internationally renowned institutions, including Umeå University in Sweden (PI: Prof. Beatrice Melin) and CEU San Pablo University in Spain (PI: Prof. María Escribese).

Training and research environment: As part of the Neuro-Immunology Group, you will join a dynamic and multicultural team within the Department of Cancer Research, recognized for its work in brain tumour immunology (List of publications). Our group employs state-of-the-art technologies, including transcriptomic, metabolomic, and proteomic platforms, combined with advanced in vitro and in vivo imaging modalities. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Aurélie Poli (PI of the project) and Dr. Alessandro Michelucci (Co-PI of the project and Group Leader), contributing to all the phases of this impactful research project. You will have the unique opportunity 1) to conduct innovative experiments in mouse models of GBM; 2) to generate and analyze multi-omic datasets to identify key molecular pathways influencing GBM immune responses; 3) as well as to collaborate with research teams and external partners to define new targets that might potentially enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapies for GBM.

Key Skills, Experience and Qualifications

Expected

• PhD in immunology, molecular biology, cancer biology, or a related field with a successful first postdoc (2–3 years).
• Proven expertise in mouse model experiments, with a minimum of FELASA Function A certification.
• Hands-on experience with cell culture, biochemistry, molecular biology, imaging, and flow cytometry, including data analysis.
• A strong publication record, with at least one first-author paper in a recognized international journal.
• Demonstrated time management skills, scientific rigor, and perseverance, with a self-motivated, curiosity-driven approach to research.
• Excellent writing skills, a strong sense of priority, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Fluency in English is required.

Desirable

• Prior experience in brain tumor immunology or metabolism would be an advantage.
• Hands-on expertise in single-cell sequencing techniques such as CITE-seq.
• Knowledge of bioinformatics approaches and experience with programming languages like R or Python.
• Researchers are supported by easy access to scientific expertise, well-equipped facilities, an active seminar program as well as opportunities for conference attendance and collaborations with 
• other research organizations.
  
  

Scientific contact
Dr Aurélie Poli
Aurelie.poli@lih.lu

More information about the group can be found here: https://nig.lih.lu

Applications including a cover letter and a curriculum vitae should be sent before 15 January 2025. Early submission is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception.