Esther Lizano

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.