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Cancer Biology● OpenPreview

PhD in Genetic Dissection of Metastasis Using Drosophila Colorectal Cancer Models

Explore the genetic mechanisms of metastasis using advanced Drosophila cancer models in a collaborative international research environment.

Best for:Best for motivated candidates with a background in biological sciences, particularly those interested in cancer biology, genetic analysis, and Drosophila model systems.

Universitat de Lleida · Lleida, Spain · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at Universitat de Lleida
metastasiscolorectal cancerDrosophila genetic modelsgene expression in cancertumor cell plasticitymetastatic dissemination
Deadline
Nov 15, 2026
32 days
Funding
Unfunded
3 years (standard PhD duration)
Start date
1 March 2027
Full-time
Location
Lleida
Spain

Overview

This PhD position offers the opportunity to investigate the genetic processes driving metastasis in colorectal cancer using Drosophila models. The project, based at the Biomedical Research Institute of Lleida (IRBLleida), focuses on understanding how gene expression and cellular plasticity contribute to tumor cell adaptation and metastatic spread. The successful candidate will work within a dynamic research group specializing in disease modeling and genetic analysis, with potential for collaborative research at the University of Sheffield (UK). The role involves hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, and participation in international research exchanges, making it ideal for aspiring biomedical researchers with a strong interest in cancer biology and genetic dissection of disease mechanisms.

PhD in cancer biologyDrosophila colorectal cancer modelsmetastasis genetic mechanismsgene expression analysistumor cell adaptationbiomedical researchgenetic dissection of metastasisinternational research collaboration

What you'll do

  • Conduct genetic and molecular analyses to dissect the mechanisms driving metastasis in Drosophila colorectal cancer models.
  • Develop and apply experimental techniques to study gene expression and cellular plasticity in tumor cells.
  • Collaborate with international partners, including Dr. Kyra Campbell at the University of Sheffield, to exchange research methods and findings.
  • Perform data analysis and interpretation of experimental results, contributing to the broader understanding of metastatic processes.
  • Present research findings at conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Maintain detailed laboratory records and ensure compliance with ethical and safety protocols.

Requirements

Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in Biological Sciences, Genetics, Molecular Biology, or a related field

Degree offered: PhD

Language: English; excellent proficiency required

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Strong background in molecular biology and genetic analysis techniques
  • Experience with Drosophila models or similar genetic model organisms
  • Proficiency in molecular cloning, PCR, and other molecular biology techniques
  • Familiarity with bioinformatics tools for data analysis
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
Nice to have
Prior experience with cancer research or metastasis studiesKnowledge of advanced imaging techniques for cellular analysisExperience with collaborative international research projects
Eligibility
  • No specific nationality restrictions
  • Applicants must have completed a Master's degree or equivalent prior to starting the PhD
  • No age restrictions mentioned

Funding & terms

Type
Unfunded
Amount
—
Duration
3 years (standard PhD duration)
Programme
Universitat de Lleida
Universitat de Lleida

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-11-15 (Europe/Madrid)

Interested applicants should send an email to andreu.casali@udl.cat with the subject line 'PhD in Genetic dissection of metastasis in a Drosophila colorectal cancer model'. The email should include a CV, a cover letter outlining research experience and motivation, and any relevant academic transcripts. Additional documents may be requested upon review.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Cover letter
  • Academic transcripts (BSc + MSc)
  • Research statement or proposal
✉Apply by email

Contact

Andreu Casali· PhD Supervisor

andreu.casali@udl.cat

973003758

http://www.udl.cat/

AC
Prof.
Andreu Casali
CMB (Centre for Biomedical Research)
Lab
Drosophila models of disease and (epi)genetic analysis
Universitat de Lleida
Spain
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