MAC4ME: Macrophage metabolism and ageing in the brain metastatic microenvironment of neuroblastoma in response to therapy using 3D in vitro models Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Cancer and the long-term toxicities sustained from treatment remain a public health issue for adult and paediatric patients. The spread of tumour cells is believed to account for up to 90% of cancer-related morbidities. Cancer survivors are at risk of severe or life-threatening illness due to treatment toxicities, including the development of secondary cancer. Mac4Me focuses on understanding tumour cell-immune host interactions, particularly the role of the macrophage population at the metastatic site in the brain, bone, and liver of neuroblastoma, breast, and prostate cancer patients who represent different age groups of cancer patients.The main aim of this project is 1) Establish standardized humanised 3D Bioprinted and Organ-on-Chip microglia (brain macrophages) and liver models for high throughput screening. 2) Identify ageing microglia metabolism and matrix changes induced upon interaction with neuroblastoma cells. 3) Select and test potential macrophage-targeted compounds to interfere with neuroblastoma cell survival and invasion.The Mac4Me consortium is determined to provide an innovative, interdisciplinary and state-of-the-art training programme to our DCs that is unique in the EU and worldwide. We will equip our DCs with complementary and transferable skills to boost their scientific and personal development, subsequently preparing them for the highly challenging, ever-changing nature of cancer (metastasis) research, immunotherapy and cancer drug development. Importantly, Mac4Me will teach the DCs advanced state-of-the-art research skills, including preclinical OoC models, microfluidics, immune cell assays, multi (spatial)-omics analysis, immunotherapy assay development, biomechanics, informatics, AI as well as crucial complementary skills in communication directed at different target groups, entrepreneurial knowledge, leadership and open science.Two PhD positions are available.Mandatory SpecificationThe candidate shall possess an MSc/BSc Upper Secon Class honours degree in Biological/Biomedical sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Pharmacy/Pharmacology, Immunology or BiotechnologyAbility to compile and analyse basic dataExcellent project and time management skillsSelf-starter with the ability to work as part of a teamDesirable SpecificationHands-on lab experience in microfluidic devices or immunoassays is a plus;Ability to ensure that project plans are communicated and that all timelines are metHow to applyTo apply, please access the following link and complete the application form in full:  https://forms.office.com/e/91iNV1eJBRUnfortunately, we are unable to provide individual feedback to applicants. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.  At this stage only successful candidates will be contacted to submit CV, transcripts and other relevant documentation. For successful candidates, referees will also be contacted at this stage for a reference. Applications must include:  (i) a completed application form  (ii) English language requirements – see https://www.rcsi.com/dublin/postgraduate/policies-and-guidelines/english-language-requirements. Deadline: All applications must be made online by 31-Oct-2024It is the candidate’s responsibility to ensure the application form is completed in full and on time. Late and/or incomplete applications will not normally be assessed. Further information on the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland can be found here: https://www.rcsi.com/Project Supervisors: Dr Olga Piskareva, Dr Adrian Dervan, Dr Ian Woods, Prof Fergal O'BrienExpected shortlisting date: 02 November 2024Expected interview date: mid NovemberExpected start date: 10 January 2025