PhD Position in Cancer Biology and Protein Stabilization (PTEN) Institute for Research in Biomedicine in Switzerland

The Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB) in Bellinzona, Switzerland, invites applications for a fully funded 3-year PhD position in the Computational Structural Biology laboratory led by Dr. Andrea Cavalli. This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about cancer biology, protein stabilization, and translational research. The project focuses on developing and validating innovative experimental strategies to stabilize and reactivate the tumor suppressor PTEN, a key player in cancer biology. By combining biophysical, biochemical, and cellular approaches with structural insights, the research aims to uncover novel mechanisms of targeted protein stabilization with therapeutic relevance.

The PhD student will perform functional validation of lead compounds in cellular systems and contribute to in vivo testing in relevant cancer models. This will provide valuable experience in assessing efficacy, mechanism of action, and translational potential. The project offers hands-on training with advanced experimental techniques at the interface of structural biology, chemical biology, and cancer research. Students will collaborate closely with interdisciplinary experts in medicinal chemistry and translational oncology, ensuring exposure to a broad spectrum of scientific perspectives.

IRB provides a stimulating international research environment, featuring journal clubs, seminars by world-renowned scientists, and regular scientific events. PhD students are enrolled in the PhD program of Università della Svizzera italiana, Lugano, and benefit from access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and competitive Swiss PhD salaries. Bellinzona, located in the Italian-speaking region of southern Switzerland, offers a high quality of life, abundant outdoor activities, and excellent connections to Zurich and Milan.

Applicants should hold a MSc. in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, or related fields, demonstrate strong motivation for experimental research, and show interest in cancer biology and drug discovery. Excellent English language skills are required. To apply, send your CV, a short motivation letter, and names and email addresses of two referees to [email protected] by 12 March 2026. For further details, visit IRB's join-the-team page.