Prostate cancer is immunologically cold, which means that the body’s own immune system fails to detect and eradicate the cancer cells. We have discovered that drug-induced defects in transcription elongation activate immunogenic signalling in prostate cancer cells. In particular, this can be achieved by inhibiting cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) using compounds already assessed in clinical trials against other cancers.
Our main aim is to develop CDK9 inhibitor-based treatment against prostate cancer that leads to durable response. This is achieved through three sub-aims:-
1. Explain how prostate cancer cells become resistant to CDK9 inhibition to identify predictors of resistance.
2. Characterise CDK9 inhibitor-induced remodelling of tumour and tumour microenvironment to identify the right combinatorial treatment strategy.
3. Validate 1-3 combinatorial treatment strategies and explain how the best one works.
We are looking for an enthusiastic postdoctoral researcher with previous experience of working with in vivo models of cancer to support points 2 and 3 (above). We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to work within our multidisciplinary/multi-group team. The project is co-led by Professor Ian Mills (NDS) and Dr Harri Itkonen (Oslo/Helsinki). For this position the appointee will work closely with collaborating groups led by Professor Eileen Parkes (Oncology) and Professor Fadi Issa (NDS) focussing on in vivo responses.
About you
You will hold a PhD/DPhil in oncology, immunology, or a related biomedical science field. Previous research experience and specialist knowledge in cancer biology and the in vivo modelling of cancer. You will hold a relevant personal licence to undertake in vivo experiments (Home Office issued or equivalent). You will be experienced in cellular and molecular biology techniques with mammalian cell culture. You will have excellent verbal and written communication skills, and ability to communicate results clearly in presentations, manuscripts, and grant reports.
This full-time position is available for a 12-month period in the first instance.
Application Process
If you would like to discuss this role please contact Professor Ian Mills: ian.mills@nds.ox.ac.uk and Dr Harri Itkonen: harri.itkonen@helsinki.fi
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a supporting statement of maximally two pages setting out how you meet the selection criteria, curriculum vitae that includes potential peer reviewed publications, and the names and contact details of two referees as part of your online application. Please quote reference NDSA950 on all correspondence.
Only applications received before noon on the 6th January 2025 can be considered.
Interviews will be held on or after 15th January 2025.
