PhD position in EU Doctoral Network „PANDORA” : Discovering pathomechanisms and novel drug optimization for AMD (DC7)

Description

Offer Description: Defining molecular biomarkers of complement-mediated AMD via multimodal imaging. We are seeking a highly motivated and intellectually curious PhD student to work on a project investigating diagnostic therapeutic approaches in AMD disease models. The PhD position is part of the MSCA Doctoral Network PANDORA on discovering Pathomechanisms and Novel Drug Optimization for AMD (Age-Related Macular Degeneration). The PhD student will work at the Laboratory for Biophotonics and Molecular Imaging (LBMI), Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL), FORTH, using the novel hybrid microscope developed at FORTH for multimodal, multiparametric imaging of molecular biomarkers in different AMD models. The microscope combines optoacoustic (OAM), two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF), second harmonic generation (SHG) and coherent Raman microscopy in one system enabling the label-free detection of several biomarkers simultaneously: choroid thickness, collagen deposits, lipofuscin concentration, complement system protein dysfunction and mitophagy deregulation. The student will develop, optimize and implement the appropriate detection protocols to visualize biomarkers of retinal degeneration at an early stage of disease for 3D models, such as ex vivo porcine retinal cultures and iPSC-derived retinal organoids. The student will also investigate the role of complement system protein cascades and metabolic dysfunctions (e.g. autophagy/mitophagy) in AMD and other diseases with ocular manifestations. Additionally, the student will use the instrument to study therapeutic response to novel drugs by monitoring delivery and biodistribution in animal and non-animal tissue samples. The final step of the project involves a small proof of concept in vivo study to image the retina through the eye. Within PANDORA, therapies under investigation across the network include complement inhibition, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory drugs and mitochondria modulators, with results feeding into new diagnostic and therapeutic paradigms for AMD. The PhD candidate will join a network of European experts spanning gene therapy, pharmacology, bioinformatics, disease modelling and imaging, with opportunities for secondments (lab exchanges) at partner institutions. Key Responsibilities Develop and optimisation of protocols and detailed guidelines for multimodal imaging procedures in retinal explants and retinal organoids. Develop and maintain a database of AMD-related biomarkers that can be detected and visualized with multimodality microscopy. Perform imaging of retinal tissue using the multimodal microscope Perform quantitative image processing, analysis and interpretation of multimodal datasets. Correlate imaging biomarkers to multiomics biomarkers, therapeutic delivery and response. Investigate therapeutic delivery, biodistribution and treatment response using multimodal imaging. Contribute to scientific publications, conference presentations, network activities, training events and research secondments. Requirements: Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Education Level Bachelor Degree or equivalent Research Field Engineering » Biomedical engineering Education Level Bachelor Degree or equivalent Research Field Neurosciences » Neurobiology Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Research Field Medical sciences » Health sciences Education Level Master Degree or equivalent Skills/Qualifications Required Hands-on experience with cell and/or tissue culture techniques. Experience with microscopy and/or bioimaging techniques, and basic image analysis. Strong interest in retinal biology, neurobiology and biomedical imaging. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in multidisciplinary, international teams. Willingness to undergo training/certification for animal handling and in vivo procedures. Excellent command of written and spoken English. Desirable : Background or coursework in complement biology, autophagy/mitophagy, or retinal

Sectors

Source

Source: euraxess.ec.europa.eu