PhD Thesis – Study of the Link Between Obesity and Peritoneal Metastatic Potential in Ovarian and Breast Cancer Murine Models

Offer Description
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The Louvain Drug Research Institute (LDRI) – UCLouvain invites applications for a PhD position to investigate the relationship between obesity and peritoneal metastatic potential in ovarian and breast cancer using murine models. This research will be conducted within two leading laboratories: the REMA lab, specializing in cancer imaging, and the BPBL lab, focusing on bioanalysis and the pharmacology of bioactive lipids. Obesity is increasingly recognized as a critical factor influencing cancer progression and metastasis. This PhD project will explore the role of obesity-induced inflammation in promoting peritoneal metastases in ovarian and breast cancer models. The research will integrate advanced imaging techniques, bioanalytical methods, and pharmacological analyses to better understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these interactions.
The candidate will be involved in:
– In vitro (cell culture, transwell assays, …) and in vivo studies in mice (animal monitoring, body weight, blood sampling, in vivo tumor growth assays, non-invasive imaging)
– Monitoring of immune and inflammatory parameters (Molecular biology techniques, biochemical analysis, flow cytometry, histological analyses…)

Where to apply
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E-mail [email protected]

Requirements
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Research Field Pharmacological sciences » Other
Education Level Master Degree or equivalent
Research Field Biological sciences » Laboratory animal science
Education Level Master Degree or equivalent
Research Field Medical sciences » Health sciences
Education Level Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
– A strong background in cancer biology or inflammation pharmacology is an advantage.
– Previous experience in scientific research (internships, research projects, or laboratory work): Experience/training in animal experimentation, molecular biology and biochemical analysis is an advantage.
– Strong analytical skills and a willingness to engage with experimental animal models (FELASA certificate for animal handling is a plus, if not, the candidate will have to obtain this certificate through training at the very beginning of the thesis).
– Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken).
Specific Requirements
– Interest in oncology/cancer biology, inflammation pharmacology, or metabolic disorders.
– Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
– Motivation for scientific research and willingness to learn new skills and techniques.
Languages ENGLISH
Level Excellent
Internal Application form(s) neededPhD Thesis Opportunity at Louvain Drug Research Institute.pdfEnglish(167.56 KB – PDF)Download

Additional Information
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Work Location(s)
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Number of offers available 1
Company/Institute UCLouvain/ Louvain Drug Research Institute
Country Belgium
City Brussels
Postal Code 1200
Street Avenue Mounier 73

Contact
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City Brussels
Website https://www.uclouvain.be/en/research-institutes/ldri
Street Avenue Mounier 73.08
Postal Code 1200
E-Mail [email protected]