PhD Student in Immuno-Oncology: Translational Control and tRNA Modifications in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Luxembourg Institute of Health in Luxembourg

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults and remains incurable despite recent therapeutic advances. CLL is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal, apoptosis-resistant B lymphocytes in the blood and lymphoid organs. Disease progression is highly dependent on complex interactions between tumor cells and their microenvironment, especially immune cells. Recent research by the Tumor–Stroma Interactions Research Group has demonstrated that deregulation of mRNA translation is a key feature of CLL, presenting new opportunities for targeted therapies.

This PhD project aims to investigate translational control and tRNA modifications in CLL cells and immune cells within the leukemic microenvironment. The research will focus on characterizing mRNA translation aberrations and identifying novel therapeutic vulnerabilities. Previous findings have shown that specific tRNA modifications are crucial for disease progression and the immunosuppressive function of regulatory T cells (Tregs). The project will further explore the role of these modifications in regulating cell-specific functions such as proliferation, suppressive capacity, and metabolism, as well as in translatome remodelling using techniques like polysome profiling, proteomics, and RNA-seq.

The Tumor–Stroma Interactions Research Group is a dynamic, multinational team within the Department of Cancer Research at the Luxembourg Institute of Health. The department specializes in cellular and molecular mechanisms of tumor progression, utilizing cutting-edge technologies including genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses, as well as advanced in vitro and in vivo imaging modalities based on state-of-the-art animal models. The PhD student will be co-supervised by Dr. J. Paggetti (PI) and Dr. A. Largeot (Senior Scientist), with collaborative input from Dr. Pierre Close (PI) at the University of Liège (GIGA, Belgium), a world expert in mRNA translation.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences or Immunology, with prior experience in cancer research considered an advantage. Essential skills include cell culture, biochemistry, molecular biology, imaging, and flow cytometry. Experience in mouse experimentation and a FELASA diploma (or equivalent) are assets. Candidates must demonstrate excellent time management, scientific rigour, perseverance, creativity, strong writing skills, prioritization ability, and collaborative work style. Fluency in English is mandatory.

The Luxembourg Institute of Health offers a supportive research environment with access to scientific expertise, well-equipped facilities, an active seminar programme, and opportunities for collaboration with universities and research institutes. The institute is committed to gender equality and removing discriminatory barriers in recruitment and career progression.

To apply, submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your motivation for the position via the Nature Careers application link. For more information about the research group, visit https://tsi.lih.lu.