Marc Weber
1 year ago
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PhD Position: Novel Cell-Free RNA Biomarkers for Early Cancer Detection via Liquid Biopsy University of Udine in Italy
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
Deadline
Expired
Country
Italy
University
University of Udine
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About this position
This PhD project, hosted at the University of Udine and Flomics Biotech SL in Barcelona, focuses on the identification and implementation of novel cell-free RNA (cfRNA) biomarkers for early cancer detection using liquid biopsy. Flomics Biotech is pioneering a multi-purpose blood test that leverages optimized cfRNA profiling via Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and advanced machine learning analysis to detect cancer and other complex diseases before symptoms arise. Unlike traditional liquid biopsy approaches that target circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), this project emphasizes cfRNA, which is more abundant and informative in early disease stages, as it is released from both cancerous and non-cancerous cells, including those from the immune system and stroma.
The candidate will utilize proprietary RNA sequencing protocols and analyze a large in-house dataset (~1,100 samples) covering five cancer types and healthy controls. Research will involve developing bioinformatics pipelines to explore RNA-based signals beyond gene expression, such as mitochondria-derived RNAs, circular RNAs, single nucleotide variants, and novel transcripts. The project includes advanced data normalization and removal of unwanted variation, addressing key challenges in cfRNA research. Machine learning models will be developed to classify cancer patients versus healthy controls with high accuracy, integrating novel biomarker types and global gene expression signatures.
The position is part of the INT2ACT Doctoral Network, offering strong collaboration and secondments with leading European research groups, including the Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry (Polish Academy of Science) and University of Udine. The host laboratory at Flomics Biotech provides a dynamic environment with cutting-edge genomics and bioinformatics resources. Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, proficiency in English, and willingness to travel for collaborative research.
Funding is provided, and the application deadline is January 31, 2026.
Funding details
Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
What's required
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Biology, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, or a related field. Candidates must not already possess a doctoral degree. Required skills include basic knowledge in bioinformatics and RNA-seq, basic machine learning, intermediate proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, R, or C++), and good command of the Linux terminal. Desirable skills include experience with Nextflow and AWS. Proficiency in English is required, demonstrated by a recognized language test unless exempted. Candidates must comply with the mobility rule: not having resided or carried out their main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment.
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Professors
Dr. at INT2ACT
Italy
Research Interests
Computer Science
Biology
Biomedical Engineering
Machine Learning
Health Science
Dr. at INT2ACT
Italy
Research Interests
Health Science
Biomarker Research
Cancer Diagnosis
Biology
Ngs
Dr. at INT2ACT
Italy
Research Interests
Liquid Biopsy
Health Science
Biology
Machine Learning
Gene Expression
Dr. at INT2ACT
Italy
Research Interests
Cell Biology
Health Science
Biology
Biomedical Engineering
Bioinformatic
Prof. at INT2ACT
Italy
Research Interests
Cell Biology
Health Science
Bioinformatic
Rna Biology
Rna-seq
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.