We are offering a fully funded 3-year PhD position in the Computational
Structural Biology laboratory of Andrea Cavalli at the Institute for Research in
Biomedicine (IRB), Bellinzona.
The PhD project aims to develop and validate novel experimental strategies to
stabilize and reactivate the tumor suppressor PTEN in cancer. The work will
combine biophysical, biochemical, and cellular approaches, complemented by
structural insights, to investigate innovative mechanisms of targeted protein
stabilization with therapeutic relevance.
A central goal of the project is to link molecular mechanisms to functional
outcomes and therapeutic potential through validation in relevant cellular and
preclinical cancer models.
The PhD student will:
• Perform functional validation of lead compounds in cellular systems
and contribute to in vivo testing in relevant cancer models, gaining
insight into efficacy, mechanism of action, and translational potential
• Gain hands-on experience with advanced experimental techniques at
the interface of structural biology, chemical biology, and cancer
research
• Work in close interaction with interdisciplinary collaborators, including
experts in medicinal chemistry and translational oncology
• Be fully integrated into a highly interdisciplinary and international
research environment, with strong links to translational and preclinical
cancer research
Profile:
• MSc. in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, or related
fields
• Strong motivation for experimental research
• Interest in cancer biology and drug discovery
We offer:
• A stimulating international research environment with journal clubs,
seminars given by world-renown scientists, and scientific events
• Outstanding training, mentoring, and regular scientific exchange
• PhD students are enrolled in the PhD program of the Università della
Svizzera italiana, Lugano.
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure
• Competitive PhD salary according to Swiss standards
Environment:
Bellinzona is located in the Italian-speaking region of southern Switzerland
and offers a high quality of life, abundant outdoor activities, and excellent
connections to Zurich and Milan.
Starting date: upon agreement
Duration: 3 years
To apply, please send a CV, a short motivation letter, names and email
addresses of two referees to andrea.cavalli@irb.usi.ch
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