PhD Position: Magnetic nanoparticles for cancer stem cell targeting

Dual PhD Position at IIT, Italy and University of Regensburg, Germany

Tutor: Teresa Pellegrino
The aims of this theme are to develop colloidal magnetic nanocrystals as nano-platform for a combined cancer treatment, based on hyperthermia and drug release. The focus of the project will be on cancer stem cells (CSCs). To achieve these goals, different activities are foreseen: i) the identification of magnetic nanocrystals with high heat performance, synthesized by means of colloidal methods; ii) nanoparticle functionalization with pH and thermo-responsive coatings, for the controlled drug release upon application of intra (pH) or extracellular (temperature) stimuli; iii) stabilization of the nanoparticles in physiological conditions; iv) functionalization of the nanoparticle surface with cell targeting markers. These will include antibodies or cell pathways, such as "Notch and W

nt" signalling pathways, to address the nanoparticles towards CSCs; v) in vitro study on CSCs of the stimuli-triggered release of drug molecules; vi) study the effect of hyperthermia treatments operated by the magnetic nanoparticles on CSCs; vii) combined chemo and heat treatments as a function of drug and nanoparticle doses as well as frequency and magnetic field amplitude of the alternating magnetic field applied. The ideal applicant should have a background in cancer stem cell research with familiarity with chemistry subjects.
Conditions:
This activity could be within a Marie Curie ITN network. If the European commission approves the project, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to apply for a Dual PhD together with the University of Regensburg, Germany, which will include a one year research stay at the University of Regensburg.
Requisites:
PhD candidate: research experience < 4 years at the time of the selection, being measured from the date when they obtained the degree which would formally entitle them to embark on a doctorate.
Mobility: Applicants can be nationals of any country but must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their recruitment. In case the candidate opts for a dual PhD degree, the mobility requisite applies also to Germany.
For further details concerning the research project, please contact: teresa.pellegrino@iit.it

http://www.iit.it/en/openings/phd-calls/1582-phd-position-1-magnetic-nanoparticles-for-cancer-stem-cell-targeting.html