PhD student in Cancer Metabolism

at  Luxembourg Institute of Health

PROJECT

During the last two decades, the importance of metabolism to support cancer onset and progression has gained increasing attention. Among the various nutrients that support cancer cell metabolism, serine has emerged as a very important one. Serine is not only an important precursor for anabolic metabolism (i.e. nucleotide synthesis) but also supports growth-independent processes that drive metastasis. One key element is the excess catabolism of serine to formate resulting in a phenomenon that we named formate overflow.
In recent years, we have demonstrated that formate promotes cancer cell invasion and metastasis. We know today that formate concentrations within the tumor microenvironment are often increased providing a pro-metastatic environment. Formate can impact cancer progression by auto- and paracrine effects. However, the mechanistic details of those effects remain largely unknown so far. To that end, this new project will focus on the identification of mechanisms relaying the oncogenic effect of formate.
The experimental work will rely on different in vivo (mouse) models in combination with state-of-the-art stable isotope-assisted metabolomics techniques (both in vitro and in vivo). Analyses of a patient tissue collection is also foreseen.
The project is funded via a Televie (PDR) grant and will be in close collaboration with a partner from Belgium who has developed a genetically engineered mouse model of lung cancer.
The successful candidate will be embedded in a state-of-the-art laboratory at the Department of Cancer Research (~ 90 members). The Meiser lab currently consists of 3 PhD students, one lab manager, one technician, four Postdoctoral fellows and an adjunct in-house Mass Spectrometry platform.
Relevant publications :
https://scholar.google.de/citations?hl=de&pli=1&user=1Kt1jDkAAAAJ

KEY SKILLS, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Successful Msc in the area of biology;
• Knowledge and keen interest in mammalian metabolism;
• Hands-on experience in experimental lab work (cytometry, Western Blot etc);
• Experience with 3D models may be of advantage;
• Open minded, self-driven and curious person, willing to work in a collaborative team.
  The position will be accompanied by training and mentoring opportunities to prepare for the next career step.
  Envisaged start date is February 2025.
  For any further information, please contact Dr. Johannes Meiser: johannes.meiser@lih.lu

Please refer the Job description for details