PhD Position in Cancer-Neuron Synapses and Breast Cancer Behavior at Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), University of Bergen University of Bergen in Norway

The Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO) at the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, is offering a full-time, three-year PhD position as part of the project “Cancer-neuron synapses and behavior of breast cancer.” This research is funded by The Norwegian Cancer Society and Breast Cancer Society (Pink Ribbon) and aims to investigate whether breast cancer cells form synapses with peripheral nerves and how these interactions influence tumor behavior.

The project combines advanced tissue analyses and experimental cell models. The successful candidate will generate and culture breast cancer organoids and neurons using stem cell differentiation. The interaction between these cell types will be studied in co-culture and characterized using live-cell imaging, transcriptomic and proteomic profiling, immunofluorescence, and confocal microscopy. Additional tasks include synapse detection, electrophysiological measurements in co-cultures, and ultrastructural analysis by electron microscopy. The position also focuses on developing 3D imaging technology for nerve and synapse detection in tumor tissue samples. The candidate will study the presence of synapses between breast cancer cells and nerves, characterize their biology, and participate in testing synaptic inhibitors in co-culture systems.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in molecular and/or cell biology, cancer biology, neurobiology, or a related discipline. Required skills include documented experience with cell culture (preferably organoid cultures or other 3D models and co-culture setups), immunofluorescence/IF staining, and microscopy (especially confocal microscopy and quantitative image analysis). Experience with proximity ligation assays, CRISPR/Cas9, single-cell RNA sequencing, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, electrophysiological methods, and machine learning for microscopy data analysis is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate high motivation, responsibility, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Fluency in oral and written English is required.

Applicants with education from outside Norway must provide certified translations of diplomas and transcripts and a review from the Norwegian Directorate for Higher Education and Skills (HK-dir) to verify equivalency to a Norwegian master’s degree. Documentation of language skills and references are required. Admission to the University of Bergen’s approved PhD programme at the Faculty of Medicine is essential, and a project plan outline must be submitted within three months of commencement.

The position offers exciting development opportunities in a strong professional environment, with a salary of NOK 570,000 per year (higher for applicants with medical or dental qualifications), enrolment in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, and good welfare benefits. The University of Bergen is committed to diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

For further information, contact Heidrun Vethe at [email protected]. The application deadline is 25th March 2026. Apply via JobbNorge and include all required documentation as outlined in the position description.