Location(s)
Project description:
Metastases formation is a major factor in disease progression and accounts for the majority of cancer deaths. The molecular mechanisms controlling invasion, dissemination to blood or lymphatic systems and tumor spread of tumor cells to distant organs are still poorly understood. Recent observations indicate that the metastatic phenotype may already be present during the angiogenic switch of tumors. One of crucial rate-limiting events during human tumor growth is encountered when tumors outgrow the pre-existing vasculature leading to hypoxia (oxygen insufficiency). Intratumoral hypoxia is a hallmark of solid cancers. Hypoxic tumors have a higher tendency to metastasize and are clinically characterized by therapy resistance and a poor prognosis. The Hypoxia Inducible Factors (HIF) are key molecules in the hypoxic response and play critical roles during tumor cell expansion by regulating energy metabolism and the induction of angiogenesis. Our lab recently identified TWIST1: an oncogene involved in resistance to apoptosis and inducer of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition as a key target of HIF.
This main topics of this project are.
1. Further characterization of the role of TWIST1 in hypoxia response in vitro and in vivo
2. Clonal analysis (Molecular imaging) of hypoxic tumor cells in vivo.
3. Development of therapeutic antibodies to eliminate hypoxic tumor cell in vivo.
Terms and conditions:
A postdoctoral position with a maximum gross monthly salary of euro 3638.00 on the basis of full-time employment. This is a temporary appointment for 4 year. The terms of employment are in accordance with the CAO Dutch UMC's. We can help you find housing and child daycare facilities in the area.
Requirements:
We seek highly motivated candidates with a PhD degree in Biology, Biomedical Sciences or Molecular Biology, with an excellent track record and an interest in research focused on fundamental and clinical aspects of oncogenesis in a unique multidisciplinary setting. Expertise with laboratory animals is preferred. You have excellent written and oral communication skills in English and a desire for a career in research.
Contact:
Marc Vooijs
Pathology, room H04.312
University Medical Center Utrecht
Heidelberglaan 100
Utrecht, Utrecht 3584 CX
Netherlands
Phone: +31-30-2508316
Fax: +31-30-2544990
Email: m.vooijs (at) umcutrecht.nl
