Postdoctoral Scientist (M/F) in Cardio-Oncology

The Laboratory of Signalling and Cardiovascular Pathophysiology (UMR-S 1180) is a joint INSERM and University Paris-Saclay funded research unit. It is part of the Faculty of Pharmacy of the University Paris-Saclay. It is located since 2022 in a brand new building in Orsay (25 km south of Paris, France), right in the middle of the Paris-Saclay Cluster. The general goal of the Unit is to better understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which physiological and pathological stimuli act on cardiac function through membrane receptors, ion channels, cyclic nucleotides, energetic metabolism and intracellular compartments, both structural (contractile proteins, sarcoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, nucleus) and dynamic. The characterization of the underlining signaling cascades is necessary for the identification of new therapeutic targets and molecules to improve heart function and clinical outcomes. This aspect is explored within the core facilities and complementary skills available at our Faculty of Pharmacy. Check our website: https://www.inserm-u1180.universite-paris-saclay.fr

The project, funded by the Fondation Leducq, will focus on characterizing the molecular mechanisms involved in cardiotoxicity induced by anthracycline chemotherapy. Anthracyclines, such as doxorubicin, epirubicin and idarubicin, are widely used in cancer treatments but at the expense of severe cardiotoxicity. Among the many receiving anthracyclines, children with leukemia and adults with breast cancer are still going to be treated and cured with these compounds but 10 to 15% of them are doomed to develop anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity (AIC). Although the mechanisms of AIC appear mainly based on abnormal mitochondrial function and metabolism, druggable pathways leading to this dysregulation are still largely unknown. This project will focus on mechanistic insights and eventually potentiating predictive, diagnostic, and treatment strategies for AIC. By studying human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes and cardiac samples from AIC-prone and AIC-resistant patients, we will comprehensively interrogate pathways underlying the mechanism of AIC. By better understanding mechanisms and genetic predisposition, we aim at defining a test for early prediction as well as discover innovative cardio-protective strategies to support cancer defeat without the heart paying the price. The budget finances a full-time scientist position at UMR-S 1180, starting as soon as possible after February 2025 and lasting till the end of 2026. A potential prolongation will depend on securing additional funds.

Applicants should have a PhD and (ideally) a few years of postdoctoral experience. A background in cardiac pathophysiology and/or human iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes is desirable. Independence and strong motivation are required. The job will require skills in cell culture, physiology, imaging, protein expression/purification, biochemical assays, etc., as well as data analysis and science communication. Fluency in English is required.

We offer the special opportunity to contribute to an exciting new interdisciplinary scientific project. The postdoc will benefit from all laboratory expertise as well as from a large number of core facilities. Our worldwide collaborative network is substantial and offers many opportunities for professional development. The salary will depend on qualifications and professional experience and is calculated in accordance with INSERM salary scales.