The role of Siglecs in the association between Fusobacterium nucleatum strains and colon cancer (ESR2)
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FULL DESCRIPTION
The role of Siglecs in the association between Fusobacterium nucleatum strains and colon cancer (ESR2)
[Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk] is offering a fully funded PhD position within the GLYTUNES Innovative Training Network. The project will investigate Fusobacterium nucleatum interactions with Siglecs in colorectal cancer. Based in Norwich, UK.
Job Details
- Company: [Employer hidden]
- Location: Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
- Contract Length: 3 years
- Applications Close: 30 April 2021
Project Description
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies worldwide and accounts for approximately 20% of all cancer-related deaths in developed countries. CRC has been associated with an enrichment of microbes in intestinal tissues with the most abundant species being Fusobacterium nucleatum. We recently showed that F. nucleatum interact with Siglecs (sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectins), opening a new dimension in our understanding of how F. nucleatum promotes CRC progression and in the development of therapeutic strategies targeting Siglec axis.
The project aims to unravel the nature of the Fusobacterium nucleatum ligands of Siglecs and test potential glycomimetics inhibitors of the interaction between F. nucleatum and immune cells. Training will be provided in molecular microbiology (anaerobic bacterial growth assays), cell biology (mammalian cells and gut-on-chips) and advanced bioimaging techniques (fluorescence and confocal microscopy; imaging flow cytometry), protein purification and protein-carbohydrate interactions (Octet, SPR, ITC). The ESR will gain a solid knowledge in molecular microbiology, cell biology including gut-on-chip technology, biophysical and bioimaging techniques. Training will also include transferable skills including communication (to scientific and lay audiences), intellectual property impact of the research on human health and outreach activities.
Requirements
- Expertise in microbiology including anaerobic bacteria
- Knowledge on host immune response
- Expertise in cell biology and bioimaging
- Expertise in protein purification and protein-carbohydrate interactions
About the Institution
The successful candidate will be enrolled at University of East Anglia (Norwich) and carried out research at the Quadram Institute, a new Institute on the Norwich Research Park. QI undertakes research at the forefront of the interface between food science, gut biology and health.
Application
Details on the application and recruitment process can be found on the dedicated GLYTUNES website: https://www.glytunes.eu/. Before applying all applicants should read the eligibility criteria for the MSCA-ITN PhD program.