PhD Position in Immune Therapy Research: HLA-Independent T Cell Receptors for Multiple Myeloma

This PhD position at CIMA Universidad de Navarra offers a fully funded opportunity to advance innovative immune therapies for Multiple Myeloma. Under the supervision of Dr. Juan R. Rodriguez-Madoz, the successful candidate will work on designing HLA-independent single-domain antibody (sdAb)-based T cell receptors (HINT) to overcome limitations of conventional CAR-T and TCR-T therapies. The project integrates synthetic biology, molecular oncology, and translational research, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and multidisciplinary training. The role involves hands-on work with human and mouse cancer models, genome editing, multiomics technologies, and preclinical validation, culminating in scientific publications and conference presentations. The position is part of a 4-year FPI fellowship funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation.

• Conduct molecular and cellular studies using human and mouse Multiple Myeloma models to evaluate novel HLA-independent T cell receptors.
• Perform genome editing, gene expression analysis, and functional assays to characterize engineered T cell therapies.
• Develop and validate innovative synthetic biology approaches to enhance T cell targeting and overcome antigen downregulation.
• Analyze patient-derived samples to investigate therapeutic responses in clinically relevant preclinical models.
• Apply state-of-the-art multiomics technologies to integrate and interpret molecular and cellular data.
• Prepare scientific publications and present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of basic and clinical researchers to advance CAR-T and HINT therapies.