One postdoctoral position is available in the group of Luisa Lanfrancone (https://www.research.ieo.it/research-and-technology/principal-investigators/luisa-lanfrancone/) at the Department of Experimental Oncology, IEO, starting February 1st 2026.
The Unit is focused on uncovering the specific cellular mechanisms that drive melanoma metastatic spread, with the ultimate goal of identifying potential therapeutic targets. To this end new epigenetic and metabolic vulnerabilities have been previously isolated (Bossi et al, Cancer Discovery 2016; Granieri et al, Cell Reports 2022; Marocchi et al, J Invest Dermatol 2023). Our research combines genomics, imaging and microscopy, in vivo/ex vivo cell biology assays and drug screenings, with a strong interaction with the DEO Technological Units. The laboratory is located in the Department of Experimental Oncology of the European Institute of Oncology (IEO), a Comprehensive Cancer Center based on state-of-the-art research laboratories and clinical facilities, fully equipped, relying on dedicated and trained personnel.
The successful candidate will be in contact with medical and basic scientists, and involved in the main projects of the lab, namely:
- Identification and targeting of actionable candidates in therapy-resistant melanomas
- Study of the reprogramming and of the clonal evolution of the metastatic phenotype
- Investigation of new drug combination approaches in melanoma
This is a one-year fellowship position, with the possibility of a renewal. Salary is based on professional experience.
Required requisites of the candidate:
- MA degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Pharmacology, Veterinary, Medicine or relative disciplines awarded by an Italian university or a title obtained abroad which has been recognized as equivalent to the Italian degree;
- PhD in Biology, Biotechnology, Oncology, Genetics, Pharmacology, Molecular Medicine or relative disciplines;
- knowledge of the English language;
- strong background in cancer cell biology and drug testing;
- committed to independently take responsibility over the project, being reliable and precise;
- some computational skills and experience in target validation can be desirable.
Processing 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.
To apply, please send your CV, a short description of research interests and a letter of recommendation.
Posted on 18th December 2025