PhD Position in Myeloid Neoplasm Immunology within the Hematology-Oncology Program at CIMA Universidad de Navarra

Location: Pamplona (Spain)
Contract: Temporary
Working day: Full time
Sector: Healthcare
Vacancies: 1
Discipline: R&D
Work modality: On site

Fundación para la Investigación Médica Aplicada

Cima Universidad de Navarra is a biomedical research institute of the University of Navarra, located in Pamplona, Spain. Cima's research in cellular and molecular biology, disease models and innovative technologies has a deep translational patient orientation and aims to address unmet medical needs.

Job description

We are seeking highly motivated candidates to undertake a PhD project in the field of myeloid neoplasm immunology, specifically focused on the Identification of Cooperative Immune Evasion Mechanisms between Stem Cells and the Bone Marrow Niche in Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS).
The project builds on previous findings from the research group, which revealed that the immune niche of the bone marrow in MDS patients is composed of T cells in dormant or immunosuppressive states. These data, together with recent publications, suggest that this is due, at least in part, to incomplete antigenic activation and co-stimulation of T cells, despite the expression of tumor-specific antigens by malignant stem cells.
The candidate will investigate the ability of these tumor antigens to stimulate T cells, the responsiveness of T cells themselves, the role of cytokines secreted into the niche in these processes, and the effectiveness of manipulating these factors to reactivate the immune response. The aim of the project is to elucidate the main mechanisms preventing proper activation of anti-tumor T-cell responses and to identify potential therapeutic intervention opportunities in MDS.
The student will join the Myelodysplastic Neoplasms research group, led by Dr. Irene Gañán Gómez, within the Hematology-Oncology Program at CIMA Universidad de Navarra, and the Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Dr. Gañán Gómez has an extensive track record in hemato-oncology and has made significant contributions to the field of MDS, including publications in Nature Communications, Nature Medicine, and Clinical Cancer Research.
The Myelodysplastic Neoplasms group, currently composed of three PhD students and Dr. Gañán Gómez, was established in 2023 to conduct comprehensive research into the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndromes and to identify targets for the development of novel therapies. The group focuses on both extrinsic pathogenic mechanisms affecting tumor cells (such as immune dysfunction) and intrinsic mechanisms within tumor cells (such as reprogramming of their function and differentiation capacity). The group works closely with the Hematology and Hemotherapy Unit of Clínica Universidad de Navarra and the Computational Biology Program at CIMA.
The candidate will process primary patient samples and perform experiments using techniques such as flow cytometry, single-cell sequencing, functional cell culture assays, immunoassays, gene editing, and related methodologies. In addition, the candidate will conduct statistical analyses and data visualization of experimental results and may also perform computational analyses of transcriptomic datasets.
Over time, the candidate is expected to develop skills in experimental design, scientific writing, and dissemination of research findings, presenting scientific results at internal seminars as well as national and international scientific conferences.
The successful applicant will become part of a multidisciplinary and highly collaborative environment, where active participation in and collaboration with other projects is expected. Strong teamwork and communication skills, both within and outside the research group, are therefore essential.

Full-time predoctoral contract (subject to external funding) for a duration of four years, under the employment conditions of CIMA Universidad de Navarra.

Requirements

We are looking for motivated candidates with a background in Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, or another life science or health-related discipline, with a particular interest in studying disease pathogenesis.
Previous experience in hematology and/or immunology, as well as knowledge of computational biology (including statistical programming environments such as R/Bioconductor), will be considered an asset.
Candidates must be capable of securing funding for their contract through regional (Government of Navarra), national (FPU, AECC), or international (MSCA) funding calls.
Academic Qualifications:
- Completed Master's degree, or expected completion during the 2026/27 academic year.
- Minimum undergraduate GPA equivalent to 8/10. Applications with grades between 7.5 and 8/10 may be considered if justified by other relevant qualifications described in the motivation letter.
- Previous experience (e.g., through a Master's project) in cell and/or molecular biology, gene editing, or animal experimentation (not mandatory).
- Minimum English proficiency level: B2.
Other desirable qualities: organizational skills, communication skills, and strong interpersonal abilities.
Candidates must meet the admission requirements for the PhD Program in Biomedicine at the University of Navarra.

Please attach a curriculum vitae including contact details for references.

Please attach a motivation letter describing previous experience, motivation, and research interests.

Job closed

Location: Pamplona (Spain)
Contract: Temporary
Working day: Full time
Sector: Healthcare
Vacancies: 1
Discipline: R&D
Work modality: On site

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