Francesco Annunziato

The MSCA-DN “CanGoNano” PhD position at Aptuit (Verona) srl offers an exciting opportunity to join a European Training Network focused on glyconanomaterials (GNM) as innovative platforms for the precision delivery of cancer-associated antigens. Funded by Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks, this project aims to advance cancer immunotherapy by investigating the immunogenicity of GNMs and their interaction with antigen presenting cells (APCs) using antigenic peptides and mRNAs. As a Doctoral Candidate, you will conduct research on the in vitro evaluation of immunophenotype activation (FACS analysis) within PBMCs and cytokine release following GNM treatment, assess the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in healthy mice, and explore immunogenicity across different administration routes. Additional tasks include antibody isotyping, immunohistochemistry on murine and human breast cancer cell lines, and ADCC assays. You will receive training in immunotherapy, advanced microscopy, immunoassays, flow cytometry, and manipulation of peptide-loaded GNMs. The position is supervised by Dr. Maria Elisa Perico (Aptuit, IT), with co-supervision from Prof. Francesco Annunziato (University of Florence, IT) and Cecilia Menard-Moyon (Université de Strasbourg, FR). The project includes planned secondments at the University of Florence (training in cryo-EM) and CNRS (training in nanoparticle preparation), providing a rich international and interdisciplinary experience. The PhD enrolment will be at the Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence. Funding is provided as a temporary gross research fellowship, with salary and benefits in accordance with MSCA rules. International mobility is a mandatory component, and candidates of any nationality are welcome to apply, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. These include holding a Master’s degree in a relevant field, practical laboratory experience, and compliance with the MSCA mobility rule. Candidates must not already possess a doctoral degree and must commit full-time to research activities. Applications must be submitted via the project website (https://cangonano.eu) by 8 May 2026. The application process involves uploading a CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and relevant diplomas. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews with supervisors from the network. The position starts between November 2026 and February 2027, and successful candidates will benefit from tailored training, international secondments, and a vibrant research environment at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and medical science. For further information, visit the project website or contact the project team at [email protected]. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in cancer immunotherapy and glyconanotechnology within a prestigious European network.