Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and lymph node remodeling

CAFs exert tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressive effects on cancer progression through direct and indirect interactions with cancer cells and various stromal cell types. CAFs are extensively studied in primary tumors, but far less in lymph node. The aim is here to determine how fibroblasts (fibroreticular cells) contribute to lymph node remodeling in the establishment of a pre-metastatic niche and in lymph node colonization by metastatic cells.

GIGA is University of Liège’s interdisciplinary research institute in the biomedical sciences. 

Located within the University Hospital on the Sart-Tilman campus, GIGA counts more than 600 scientists focusing on the development of health solutions for the benefit of the patients.  GIGA scientists include medical doctors, pharmacists, veterinarians, psychologists, molecular and cellular biologists, chemists, physicists, mathematicians and engineers.       

GIGA scientists are organized in systems- (neuroscience, cancer, infection-inflammation-immunity, cardiovascular) and methods-defined (medical genomics, in silico medicine) thematic units.  They benefit from expert support units including core facilities (genomics, cell imaging, flow cytometry, proteomics, viral vectors, immunohistology, animal housing, cyclotron), grant writing and management, IP valorization, and administration.

The candidate must hold a master degree (MSc) in biomedical sciences, biology or biochemistry (or equivalent). He/she will be motivated to commit to a PhD-program (2-years renewable), and able to work independently and to efficiently collaborate within a team. A good level of English is expected. Experience with experimental animal research or relevant experiment techniques in molecular biology is a plus.