One postdoctoral position is available in the Bonaldi Laboratory ("Nuclear Proteomics") at the Department of Experimental Oncology of the European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan, Italy. The initial appointment will be for one year, renewable based on performance and project needs.
The successful candidate will join the AIRC Investigator Grant 2023 (IG2023) project:
"Dissecting the Impact of Protein-Methylation Signaling in Sustaining Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Adaptive Chemoresistance (ProMeSSA)"
The project aims to dissect how protein arginine methylation signaling networks contribute to the establishment and maintenance of adaptive chemoresistance in epithelial ovarian cancer. Combining state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based proteomics, modification-proteomics, molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, and multi-omics data integration, the project seeks to uncover novel mechanisms underlying cancer cell plasticity and therapy adaptation.
The Research Environment
The Bonaldi Laboratory has internationally recognized expertise in epigenetics, protein methylation signaling, and mass spectrometry-based proteomics, with a particular focus on understanding how post-translational modifications regulate gene expression programs in cancer and other biological systems.
The successful candidate will work within a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary environment and will interact with national and international collaborators in the fields of proteomics, cancer biology, epigenetics, and computational biology.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking an enthusiastic, highly motivated and scientifically ambitious postdoctoral researcher with a strong commitment to academic research and a clear interest in developing an independent scientific career.
The ideal candidate should possess:
- PhD in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Medicine, Biotechnology, Cancer Biology, or a related discipline.
- A solid publication record commensurate with career stage.
- Demonstrated hands-on expertise in mass spectrometry-based proteomics, including quantitative proteomics workflows and preferably modification-proteomics approaches (e.g., methyl-proteomics, phosphoproteomics, acetyl-proteomics, or related PTM-focused analyses).
- Strong background in molecular and cellular biology, including mammalian cell culture, protein biochemistry, gene perturbation approaches, and functional cellular assays.
- Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to independently design, execute, and interpret experiments.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
The following qualifications will be considered advantageous:
- Experience in protein methylation biology, chromatin biology, epigenetics, or cancer biology.
- Experience in the analysis and interpretation of proteomics and other omics datasets.
- Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and multi-omics data integration.
- Experience in mentoring or supervising students and junior researchers.
What We Offer
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to:
- Being involved in a highly competitive AIRC-funded research program.
- Work at the forefront of cancer epigenetics, proteomics, and cell plasticity research.
- Access state-of-the-art proteomics, epigenomics, and computational facilities.
- Develop collaborations within an outstanding scientific ecosystem that includes IEO, IFOM, IIT, and several international partners.
- Receive mentorship and support aimed at fostering scientific independence, high-impact publications, competitive fellowship applications, and future academic career development.
The position is particularly suited for candidates who aspire to establish themselves as independent researchers and pursue a long-term career in academia.
Salary and contract conditions will be commensurate with qualifications and previous experience.
The working language of the laboratory is English.
About the European Institute of Oncology (IEO)
The European Institute of Oncology is one of Europe's leading cancer research and treatment centers. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, IEO integrates fundamental and translational research with clinical care and clinical trials.
The Department of Experimental Oncology (DEO) hosts approximately 250 scientists across +/-20 independent research groups and research units. The research campus also includes the FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology (IFOM) and the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), creating a vibrant and highly interactive scientific environment. IEO is a member of the EU-LIFE Alliance, a network of leading life science institutes committed to promoting excellence in European research.
Application
Interested candidates should contact Prof. Bonaldi sending an email to ([email protected] ) submitting:
- Curriculum Vitae, including publication list.
- A brief statement describing research interests, relevant expertise, and career goals.
- Contact information for at least two referees.
Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
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.
IEO is an equal opportunity employer committed to excellence through diversity.
Posted on 3rd June 2026