The Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer and Aging Laboratory, based at the European Institute of Oncology (IEO), focuses on elucidating the molecular and biological mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis, with particular emphasis on myeloid leukemia and breast cancer. The group is also engaged in characterizing the aging phenotype and investigating the molecular pathways that regulate longevity.
Within this research framework, the lab is currently studying how immunoaging affects CD8⁺ T cells and their responses to cancer immunotherapies, with a particular focus on mRNA-based cancer vaccines. The main goal of this work is to identify, and potentially restore, mechanisms that can enhance immunotherapeutic responses in elderly individuals.
This project involves comprehensive analysis of the CD8⁺ T cell landscape in preclinical models of aging using multiparametric flow cytometry, ex vivo functional assays, and T-cell receptor (TCR) sequencing. This project relies on a new mRNA platform developed within the group.
We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic predoctoral researcher with a background in cellular biology and a strong interest in cancer immunology and vaccines to join our team and contribute to this project.
Skills and Qualifications
- Education: Master’s degree in a life science discipline, with experience in cellular biology and immunology.
- Competencies: Proficiency in English, excellent organizational skills, and a strong ability to work collaboratively. Candidates should be self-motivated scientists driven by intellectual curiosity and proactive in developing their research projects. Previous experience in evaluating mRNA-based therapeutics and in multiparametric flow cytometry is highly desirable.
- PhD Training: Postgraduate candidates will have the opportunity to apply to the European School of Molecular Medicine (SEMM; www.semm.it) to join the Ph.D. program in Molecular Medicine.
Processing of personal data
The personal data, compulsorily provided, will be processed in compliance with Legislative Decree no. 101 of 10 August 2018, which adapts the Personal Data Protection Code (Legislative Decree no. 196 of 30 June 2003) to the provisions of Regulation (EU) 2016/679, and only for the fulfilments related to this procedure and for those consequent to the possible establishment of the working relationship, according to what is also provided for in the privacy policy, which must be accepted by each candidate at the time of sending his/her application.
Equal opportunities
This notice is issued in compliance with equal opportunities between men and women for access to employment (L. 903/77) and economic treatment, pursuant to Legislative Decree no. 198/2006.
Applicants should send their CV along with a brief motivation letter
Posted on 17th December 2025