Current biomarkers for systemic chemo- and immunotherapy response in bladder cancer have not enabled patient-stratified use of these regimens in the clinic. The research focus of this position is to combine state-of-the-art molecular subtype classification with a pipeline for systematic biomarker discovery and validation. The aim is to identify a second generation of biomarkers that would be overlooked in the whole population but that have a strong effect only in the context of specific molecular subtypes.

Our research group developed the first taxonomy for molecular subtyping of bladder cancer, and the core of our research is to describe, develop, and apply molecular subtype classification in this disease. In the group, we work with large public- and in-house gene expression datasets combined with analyses at the genomic and protein levels. In 2018 we initiated a prospective observational study in which real time RNA-seq and subtype classification is performed for several hundred resected tumors per year. Additional tools available in the group include acquisition and analysis of fresh tumor samples as well as in-vitro and in-vivo subtype-specific organoid/PDX model systems.

We are now looking for a curious and motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the group. In the research the candidate will use bioinformatic and statistical methods to analyze existing datasets and identify predictors of response and outcome for individual subtypes. Identified biomarkers will be evaluated in the lab using molecular pathology methods and biomarker testing in model systems.   

Key requirements:

·         PhD in cancer biology or an adjacent field

Advantageous skills:

We are looking for a person with a relevant skill set for the project who is also open to acquiring new skills when required. Deep knowledge of cancer biology is highly valued, and specific knowledge of urothelial cancer is a plus. The project involves working with data in an exploratory manner and prior experience with bioinformatics, e.g., using R for data analysis, visualization or work with classifiers is advantageous. At the same time, experience in testing and evaluating biomarkers in the lab, including immunostaining, molecular assays/drug testing in cell- or organoid culture, or xenograft mouse work is also of interest. Furthermore, we will consider the candidate’s ability to clearly summarize and present scientific data in the English language, and to independently drive a research project.

Webpage: Urothelial Cancer Research Unit

Partners: Department of Urology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, and the Urothelial Cancer Genomics group in Lund.

Apply here!