The “3D Cell Sensing” group (PI: Loretta L. del Mercato, Ph.D.), a young research group at Nanotechnology Institute of CNR working on multifunctional systems for biosensing and therapy, with an emphasis on cancer, invites applications for a postdoctoral position in the field of 3D in vitro cultures of tumour-like structures (tumoroids).

The successful candidate identified for this fellowship will actively work on a prestigious 5 years ERC-Starting project “Sensing cell-cell interaction heterogeneity in 3D tumor models: towards precision medicine – INTERCELLMED” (2018-2023). This is a multidisciplinary project with the aim to develop novel materials and methodologies that allow studying the tumour microenvironment and quantify cell-cell interactions that guide tumoroid responses to drugs. This research will be performed by combining sensing particles with tunable scaffold constructs, flurorescence/confocal imaging and computational tools.

About the position: The postdoc project is focused on the design, development, modification and evaluation of novel scaffold materials for assembly of reliable in vitro 3D PDAC tumoroids. The fellow will work within a multidisciplinary team of biophysicists, chemists, biologists and clinicians. The position is for 2 years and renewable up to 3 years based on the candidate’s progress. The candidate is expected to publish results in high quality, peer-reviewed journals as part of the successful completion of the fellowship. The ideal candidate will be able to begin in March 2018.

Why CNR-NANOTEC? CNR-NANOTEC provides the largest research infrastructure for high-quality nanotechnology research in the South of Italy with approximately >12000 sqm of laboratories and clean rooms and >200 employees. The research activities are highly interdisciplinary with activities spanning from organic synthesis, to biomaterials design and characterization, to advanced photonics and cell biology. We offer access and training to state-of-the-art facilities equipped with a wide range of cutting-edge instrumentation, promoting the development of external projects as well as partnerships with top international research centres.

Site Description: CNR-NANOTEC is located in Lecce, a vibrant, sunny and friendly city of 100,000 inhabitants in southern Italy. It lies in the region of Puglia, down at the heel of Italy’s boot, surrounded by attractive countryside, seashore and small lovely towns. The city provides a highly pleasant environment because of its affordable cost of living, healthy lifestyle, and unique Adriatic culture and environment.

The successful candidate will actively work on a prestigious 5 years ERC-Starting project “Sensing cell-cell interaction heterogeneity in 3D tumor models: towards precision medicine – INTERCELLMED” (2018-2023). This is a multidisciplinary project with the aim to develop novel materials and methodologies that allow studying the tumour microenvironment and quantify cell-cell interactions that guide tumoroid responses to drugs. This research will be performed by combining sensing particles with tunable scaffold constructs, flurorescence/confocal imaging and computational tools. The postdoc project is focused on the design, development, modification and evaluation of novel scaffold materials for assembly of reliable in vitro 3D PDAC tumoroids.

Qualifications: Candidates should hold a Ph.D. degree in materials science/engineering or biomedical engineering, and have a demonstrated record of relevant research accomplishments as evidenced by their training and publications. Candidates should have extensive experience in scaffolds fabrication techniques (e.g. electrospinning, hydrogels), in vitro culture systems (e.g. 3D culture; bioreactors), and flurorescence/confocal imaging. Must have good laboratory practice habits, be highly motivated and have good communication skills to work independent and as a part of multidisciplinary team. While the above mentioned experience will be an asset for obtaining the position, candidates that lack specific experience but make up for it with exceptional experimental abilities and motivation towards the work are also encouraged to apply.

Applications with cover letter (describing motivation and previous experience), CV, publication list, doctoral degree certification, and 3 contacts for recommendation, must be sent to Loretta del Mercato (loretta.delmercato@nanotec.cnr.it). Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Loretta L. del Mercato, Ph.D. CNR NANOTEC Institute of Nanotechnology c/o Campus Ecotekne, University of Salento Via Monteroni - 73100 Lecce (IT) Office. +39 0832319825 Email: loretta.delmercato@nanotec.cnr.it http://nanotec.cnr.it http://nanotec.cnr.it/it/user/loretta.l.del.mercato/