PhD 'Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma'

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the deadliest cancer types, with a very poor survival rate. In this ERC-funded PhD project, you will work at the forefront of translational cancer research to develop novel targeted therapeutics aimed at modulating the tumor stroma and improving the efficacy of chemo-immunotherapy in PDAC. You will explore innovative strategies using peptide-based therapeutics and nanomedicine approaches.

A hallmark of PDAC is its abundant and complex tumor stroma, which not only supports tumor progression but also forms a major barrier to effective treatment. Conventional therapies, including chemotherapy and even the most advanced immunotherapies, have shown limited clinical benefit for many patients.

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research that may ultimately improve outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer.

• Design and conduct experimental studies on stromal biology in PDAC.
• Develop and test peptide- and nano-based targeted therapeutic strategies.
• Work with in vitro and in vivo PDAC models.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and present findings at meetings and conferences.
• Contribute to scientific publications and your PhD thesis.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary team members, including biologists, clinicians, and pharmaceutical scientists.