About us
Human liver cancer cases are projected to increase significantly in the near future, however, there is a paucity in effective therapies. Among its broader investigations in cancer metabolism, Dr. Anastasiou’s lab aims to identify new molecular targets for the treatment and prevention of liver cancer. Towards this goal, we are using mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma with a focus on understanding how metabolic changes in the tumour and the host contribute to tumorigenesis. In recent unpublished work, we have shown that mice with hepatocellular carcinoma exhibit systemic metabolic changes that are similar to those found in human patients. We have uncovered evidence that these changes are driven both directly by tumours and indirectly by hepatic non-parenchymal cells.
About the role
The successful candidate will lead an independent project that complements ongoing work in the lab to (i) identify the signals from cancer and immune cells that drive whole-body metabolic reprogramming, and (ii) assess the effects of host metabolic reprogramming on tumorigenesis.The successful candidate will use genetic engineering to knockout candidate genes (discovered from our past work) in mice, or in primary cultured cells. He/she will then assess the effects of these knockouts on hepatic function using stable isotope tracers and in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) or ex vivo mass spectrometry and NMR-based metabolomics.
About you
Depending on expertise and scientific interests of the post holder, some of the specific aims could include, but are not be limited to: • Elucidating the cell-autonomous mechanisms that regulate glucose metabolism in the liver during cancer development • Investigating the role of immune cell metabolism in liver functions · Using proteomics and metabolomics to discover new pathways that induce host tissue reprogramming in liver cancer• Postdoctoral Training Fellows are expected to lead their own projects and collaborate within the lab and externally. The ability to work in a team is essential.
What we offer
This is an exciting opportunity to join a multidisciplinary team working across the Division of Medicine. As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: • 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) • Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme • Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan • Immigration loan • Relocation scheme for certain posts • On-Site nursery • On-site gym • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service • Discounted medical insurance Visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits to find out more.
Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As London’s Global University, we knowdiversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community torepresent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality ofopportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we allbelong. We therefore particularly encourageapplications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’sworkforce. These include people from Black, Asian andethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silveraward, in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancinggender equality.