PhD fellowship in Biomedical Glycoscience (CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastian)

The Glycotechnology Laboratory at CIC biomaGUNE, San Sebastian, Spain invites candidates to apply for an AEI funded 4-year FPI fellowship in Biomedical Glycoscience for obtaining a doctoral degree. The project is focused on the development of glycan mimetics as novel immune-checkpoint inhibitors in cancer therapy and potential as immunomodulators for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and allergies. Current immune oncology therapies are still very limited in their scope as many patients do not respond to treatment due to the suppression of immune cells including dendritic cells, macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells in the tumor microenvironment. The interaction of glycans specifically expressed on tumour cells with carbohydrate binding receptors on immune cells is one the causes for the observed immune suppression. This PhD project is part of a larger effort in the lab towards the development and validation of novel glycan mimetics that outcompete natural glycan ligands in affinity and selectivity. The student will receive advanced training in synthetic organic chemistry, glycan microarray development and in vitro immune assays as the major methodologies required towards completing the project objectives.
CIC biomaGUNE is a leading research center in the area of bionanomaterials and molecular imaging. The center maintains a vibrant weekly scientific seminar program given by visiting leading scientists and offers additional training in soft skills and technologies covered by the CIC biomaGUNE technical platforms within the in-house PhD training program. In 2018 CIC biomaGUNE was recognized as a Center of Excellence in the Severo Ochoa/Maria de Maeztu program.

Additional information:
The group: https://glycotechnology.net/
The center: https://www.cicbiomagune.es/
The city: http://www.sansebastian-connectingtalent.com/es/

Requirements
- Diploma and/or Master Degree in Chemistry with above average results.
- Good theoretical background and previous practical experience in organic synthesis
- Experience and knowledge in material science, mass spectrometry and nanotechnology is a plus.
- Proficiency in English, spoken and written
- Not have been beneficiary of a previous PhD fellowship for longer than 12 months.

Benefits
The candidate will be employed by CIC biomaGUNE on a temporary basis for 4 years. Health care and social security benefits are covered by the Spanish social security scheme. Financial support will cover salary, internships and tuition fees for the doctoral program at the UPV/EHU University.

Application procedure:
Candidates should submit their CV, a cover letter and the names and contact details of at least 2 references indicating 302 as reference by using the form at https://www.cicbiomagune.es/job-offers-form