Prof. Pece’s Laboratory – Hormone-Related Cancers and Stem Cell Pathobiology
European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan, Italy
We are looking for a highly motivated post-graduate fellow to join our dynamic research team within the Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology at the University of Milan. The fellow will work on innovative projects aimed at uncovering new therapeutic strategies to limit tumor progression and metastasis. In particular, the research focuses on understanding how oncogenic signaling pathways regulate tumor cell plasticity, aggressiveness, and adaptation to the microenvironment.
This position is ideal for a recent graduate who wishes to deepen their expertise in cancer biology within a cutting-edge and collaborative research environment.
Scientific Background
Our lab investigates how CDK12 (Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 12) contributes to tumorigenesis. CDK12 is a transcriptional regulator involved in DNA damage response, RNA processing, and chromatin organization. In aggressive breast cancers, CDK12 overexpression promotes tumor survival and metastatic spread, but it also creates specific vulnerabilities to metabolic therapies
(Filippone MG et al., Nat Commun 2022, 13(1)).
The project will explore CDK12-driven pathways to identify therapeutic targets and biomarkers that can support personalized cancer treatment. This research is funded by an AIRC Investigator Grant (Grant ID 31130, 2024).
Fellowship Details
- Duration: 12 months
- Start date: October 2025
- Location: European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan
- Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications
Eligibility & Requirements
- Master’s degree in Molecular Biomedicine, Biology, Genetics, Pharmacology, or related fields
- Background in cancer biology
- Practical experience in molecular and cell biology techniques
(experience with primary cells and/or 3D-organoids is a plus) - Interest in transcriptional and epigenetic regulation, cell signaling, and tumor plasticity
- Good communication skills, strong motivation, and ability to work in a team
- Proficiency in English
Why Join Us?
- Focus on cutting-edge research in tumor heterogeneity, plasticity, and metastasis
- Access to state-of-the-art technologies and clinically relevant models (PDXs, organoids, patient samples)
- Integrated wet-lab and computational approaches (transcriptomics, epigenomics, imaging)
- Collaborative environment with strong national and international connections
- Mentorship and training opportunities in a multidisciplinary setting
- A strong publication and funding track record
- The candidate will be encouraged to apply at the selection of the European School of Molecular Medicine SEMM to join our PhD program
To apply, please send your CV, a brief statement (max 1 page) describing your research interests and motivation and contact information for two referees, using the proper link.