Project description
The DrugLogics NTNU initiative addresses challenges related to the current lack of sufficient sensitivity and specificity in cancer diagnostic tools and the lack of a sufficiently large repertoire of therapies to allow treatment of large and heterogeneous patient populations. We aim to create novel opportunities for clinical decision support and improved efficiency of pre-clinical anti-cancer drug discovery.
The project builds upon developing and integrating computational, experimental and analytical approaches to predict and validate anti-cancer drug combinations and using this to deliver an integrated pipeline for rationalized screening for synergistic drugs and a system for clinical decision support. We accomplish this by 1) producing a repository of causal interaction statements for assembling cell-fate decision networks, 2) building a logical multiscale modelling platform for semi-automated construction of cell fate decision networks. 3) in silico predict effects of anti-cancer drug combinations, identify putative synergistic drug combinations, predict drug resistance and resistance mechanisms in patient samples, 4) testing the predictions in cancer cell line models, in xenografts, and biobank samples.
The position
We seek a talented, enthusiastic and creative scientist with a strong commitment to research in an interdisciplinary setting.
The PhD candidate will focus on designing and quality assuring experimental systems for validating predicted effects of anti-cancer drug combinations in cancer cell line models, in xenografts, and biobank samples. The candidate will collaborate with computational modelling group members to produce predictions on the effects of anti-cancer drug combinations for validation.
The PhD candidate will be part of an interdisciplinary group of 11 newly recruited people working together at DrugLogics NTNU (www.DrugLogics-NTNU.org), to pursue complementary tasks in molecular oncology, computational modelling and Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) . Together we aim to use computer modelling of cancer disease to predict response and resistance to drugs and drug combinations and to participate in shaping a well-functioning precision medicine research and innovation infrastructure. DrugLogics NTNU is funded from NTNU, The Norwegian Research Council, ERACoSysMed and “The Liaison Committee between the Central Norway Regional Health Authority (RHA) and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)” and is embedded in the Digital Life Centre at NTNU (https://www.ntnu.edu/dln).
The period of employment for the position as a PhD candidate is 3 years and is funded by “The Liaison Committee between the Central Norway Regional Health Authority (RHA) and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)”. The position has the objective of qualifying for higher academic positions. Admission to a doctoral degree program is a requirement for employment as a PhD candidate. For regulations concerning the PhD-degree at NTNU, please see: http://www.ntnu.no/studieavd/dok/PhD_regulations.pdf
Requirements of the applicant:
- A master’s degree or an equivalent education within biology or biotechnology or medicine
- A strong academic record with a weighted average grade of master’s or equivalent education with a grade of B or higher, in accordance with NTNU’s grading system.
- Proficiency in oral and written English.
Emphasis will also be placed on:
- a background in cancer biology or oncology or bioinformatics
- experience in molecular medicine or cell biology experimental work
- experience and motivation to work in an interdisciplinary scientific setting
- excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
The position offers work with challenging and varied tasks in a versatile and pleasant environment that is characterized by active, committed and skilled employees.
A good work environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their gender, functional capacity or cultural background. If necessary, we will adapt the workplace for people with disabilities. Increasing the number of women in academic positions is an important priority for the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
More information regarding moving to Trondheim, Norway and working at NTNU.
Depending on qualifications and academic background, PhD Candidates at the Faculty of Medicine will be remunerated at wage code 1017 – levels 50-58 on the Norwegian State salary scale, with gross salary from NOK 432 700 – NOK 497 600 a year, of which 2% is deducted for the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund. A yearly amount for operating costs will be added.
The appointment will be made in accordance with current regulations and supplementary rules with guidelines for employment as PhD Candidate appointments at universities and university colleges.
How to apply:
Applicants are asked to apply via this page at Jobbnorge. The application should contain the following attachments:
- Applicants’ CV (including list of publications, relevant former positions and references) and copy of relevant transcripts and diplomas.
- Short statement on the applicant’s personal qualifications and motivation for the position.
- Short statement from a former supervisor/tutor/teacher.
- Contact information for two references.
- Other relevant attachments.
Candidates from universities outside Norway are kindly requested to send a Diploma Supplement or a similar document, which describes in detail the study and grade system and the rights for further studies associated with the obtained degree: http://ec.europa.eu/education/tools/diploma-supplement_en.htm
Deadline for applications 23.01.2017.
Chosen applicants will be invited to undergo an interview.
For further information about the position, please contact:
Professor Astrid Lægreid, Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, e-mail: [email protected]
Postdoctor Åsmund Flobak, Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, e-mail: [email protected]
For information concerning the application process, please contact the HR Executive Officer Mariann Hansen: [email protected]
