Internships, M.Sc., Ph.D. and PDF offers

Accredited professors of the Molecular Biology Programs are always looking for motivated students who wish to pursue graduate studies in Molecular Biology. You can find the undergraduate internship, master’s, doctoral or even postdoctoral offers. Do not hesitate to contact the teams that have projects that interest you!

Undergraduate Internships
Master
M.Sc. project offer in Dr Thomas Pincez' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Sainte-Justine
Project title Blood cell traits at birth: dismantling maternal

and newborn genetic contributions and their impact on newborn health

Study level(s) ☒ MSc ☒ PhD ☐ Postdoctorate
Principal investigator(s) Thomas Pincez, MD, PhD, FRCPC
Research axis Immune Diseases and Cancer
Project duration 2-4 years
Start date April 2025 (to be discussed according to availability)

Research laboratory presentation

Our laboratory focuses on blood traits and hematological diseases (red blood cell diseases and autoimmune cytopenias in particular), mainly using genomics and genetics approaches. Our aims to provide patients suffering from hematological pathologies with the best available tools of these approaches. We sought to better understand these pathologies and to develop prognostic tools. We also seek to improve understanding of blood traits and their use as biomarkers in clinical practice. Our laboratory has a full-time bioinformatician to support students in computational analyses.

Research project description

Blood traits (number and characteristics of blood cells) influence many physiological processes, such as oxygen transport for red blood cells and defense against infection for white blood cells. The blood characteristics of newborn babies are unique, with two specific features. Firstly, they are under the combined influence of maternal and foetal factors. Secondly, fetal hemoglobin accounts for most of the newborn’s hemoglobin. As this hemoglobin has a greater affinity for oxygen, it favors the transport of this molecule from the mother to the fetus and the fetus growth. However, our knowledge of these specificities is limited. Indeed, the respective contributions of mother and fetus to the regulation of blood traits are unknown, and the impact of fetal hemoglobin variation on newborn growth has not been studied. These limitations complicate the interpretation of blood traits at birth. Nevertheless, the complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common tests performed on newborns to assess several blood traits. In clinical practice, interpretation of the abnormalities found in CBC is sometimes difficult because their consequences are unclear.

The genetics of blood traits, including fetal hemoglobin, have been extensively studied in adult populations. These data represent a valuable tool for addressing the challenges posed by blood traits at birth.

In this project, we propose to use different epidemiological (computational) genetic approaches to better understand the specificities of newborn blood traits and improve their clinical interpretation. In particular, the candidate will be required to carry out polygenic score analyses, mendelian randomization and multivariate analyses. He or she will work on two of the largest cohorts to have measured blood traits at birth, with genotyping data available for both mother and newborn.

This project can be carried out as part of a master’s degree, or deepened and extended if a PhD is desired.

Required training and profile

We are looking for a motivated person with an interest in epidemiological genetics and hematology. This person must have an interest in teamwork.

Some experience in the use of bioinformatics tools is required (prior use of R and Unix code). Knowledge of human biology, and in particular human genetics, is an asset.

A previous degree in biomedical sciences, genetics, bioinformatics or equivalent is required.

Students must have sufficient knowledge of French and English.

Applications with expertise in article writing and statistical data analysis will be preferred.

Conditions

The candidate must be enrolled at the Université de Montréal in a program relevant to the research topic (M.Sc. or Ph.D.). Funding will be granted for the duration of the program of study. All trainees will be required to apply for grants from granting agencies.

Submit your application

Candidates must send the required documents to Thomas Pincez at thomas.pincez@umontreal.ca.

Please provide:

  • Curriculum vitæ
  • Most recent transcripts
  • Cover letter
  • References

(November 2024)

M.Sc. project offer in Dr Thomas Pincez' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Sainte-Justine
Project title Clinical and biological impact of genetic determinants of  hemolysis
Study level(s) ☒ MSc ☒ PhD ☐ Postdoctorate
Principal investigator(s) Thomas Pincez, MD, PhD, FRCPC
Research axis Immune Diseases and Cancer
Project duration 2-4 years
Start date April 2025 (to be discussed according to availability)

Research laboratory presentation

Our laboratory focuses on blood traits and hematological diseases (red blood cell diseases and autoimmune cytopenias in particular), mainly using genomics and genetics approaches. Our aims to provide patients suffering from hematological pathologies with the best available tools of these approaches. We sought to better understand these pathologies and to develop prognostic tools. We also seek to improve understanding the genetic basis of hematological diseases. Our laboratory has a full-time bioinformatician to support students in computational analyses.

Research project description

Diseases of the red blood cell can lead to its destruction, a phenomenon known as hemolysis. This hemolysis leads to anemia of varying severity, which may require red blood cell transfusions. Genetic variants in red cell membrane genes are found in several hemolytic diseases. However, such variants can also be found in individuals without hemolysis. Thus, the impact of variants affecting red cell membrane genes is poorly understood and probably affected by the presence of variants in other genes and/or by underlying polygenic predisposition. This project aims to better understand the impact of variants associated with hemolysis and to identify the genetic contribution to hemolysis. This will also have a clinical impact by enabling better genetic counseling and management of patients with hemolytic disorders.

The candidate will work with large databases (>500,000 individuals) to search for variants in red cell disease genes. He/she will also carry out genome-wide association studies to identify the polygenic contribution to hemolysis. The impact of these variants and scores will be analyzed on patients’ biological and clinical data. Mendelian randomization will be used to analyze the causality of the associations found.

This project can be carried out as part of a master’s degree, or deepened and extended if a PhD is desired.

Required training and profile

We are looking for a motivated person with an interest in epidemiological genetics and hematology. This person must have an interest in teamwork.

Some experience in the use of bioinformatics tools is required (prior use of R and Unix code). Knowledge of human biology, and in particular human genetics, is an asset.

A previous degree in biomedical sciences, genetics, bioinformatics or equivalent is required.

Students must have sufficient knowledge of French and English.

Applications with expertise in article writing and statistical data analysis will be prioritized.

Conditions

The candidate must be enrolled at the Université de Montréal in a program relevant to the research topic (M.Sc. or Ph.D.). Funding will be granted for the duration of the program of study. All trainees will be required to apply for grants from granting agencies.

Submit your application

Candidates must send the required documents to Thomas Pincez at thomas.pincez@umontreal.ca.

Please provide:

  • Curriculum vitæ
  • Most recent transcripts
  • Cover letter
  • References

(November 2024)

M.Sc. project offer in Dr Hugo Wurtele' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont

 DNA replication is a fundamental process that allows the duplication of genetic material and its subsequent transfer to daughter cells. DNA damage caused by environmental agents or anti-cancer drugs can prevent DNA replication and cause genomic instability. Our laboratory investigates the mechanisms that enable cells to respond to DNA damage that occurs during replication. Our research projects aim to better understand the impact of these mechanisms in the context of ovarian cancer and malignant melanoma. We use approaches from molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics, as well as experimental models ranging from yeast to cultured mammalian cells. 

We are looking for candidates for MSc, PhD, or post-doctoral studies interested in cancer research and in fundamental mechanisms influencing genomic stability in eukaryotes. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria of the Molecular Biology program at the University of Montreal: previous studies in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology are essential. Candidates with laboratory experience and strong academic skills will be favored. The projects will be carried out at the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, a leading training facility affiliated with the University of Montreal, in Dr. Hugo Wurtele’s laboratory (https://crhmr.ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca/en/researcher/hugo-wurtele). Interested candidates should send a CV, letter of motivation, and university transcripts. 

Relevant Publications: 

Lemay J-F, St-Hilaire E, Gezzar-Dandashi S, McQuaid M, Ronato DA, Gao Y, Bélanger F, Sawchyn C, Kimenyi Ishimwe AB, Mallette FA, Masson J-Y, Drobetsky EA, Wurtele H (2022) A genome-wide screen identifies SCAI as a modulator of the UV-induced replicative stress response in human cells. PLoS Biol. 2022 Oct 10;20(10) 

Bélanger F, Roussel C, Sawchyn C, Gezzar-Dandashi S, Mallette FA, Wurtele H*, Drobetsky EA* (2023) Control of UV damage repair during S phase via Dyrk1A-dependent regulation of cyclin D1/p21waf1cip1 stability. Journal of Biological Chemistry 8: 104900, doi: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104900 

Bélanger F, Fortier E, Dubé M, Lemay JF, Buisson R, Masson JY, Elsherbiny A, Costantino S, Carmona E, Mes-Masson AM, Wurtele H, Drobetsky E. (2018) Replication Protein A Availability during DNA Replication Stress Is a Major Determinant of Cisplatin Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancer Res. 78:5561-5573 

(August 2024)

Ph.D.
Ph.D. project offer in Dr Thomas Pincez' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Sainte-Justine
Project title Blood cell traits at birth: dismantling maternal

and newborn genetic contributions and their impact on newborn health

Study level(s) ☒ MSc ☒ PhD ☐ Postdoctorate
Principal investigator(s) Thomas Pincez, MD, PhD, FRCPC
Research axis Immune Diseases and Cancer
Project duration 2-4 years
Start date April 2025 (to be discussed according to availability)

Research laboratory presentation

Our laboratory focuses on blood traits and hematological diseases (red blood cell diseases and autoimmune cytopenias in particular), mainly using genomics and genetics approaches. Our aims to provide patients suffering from hematological pathologies with the best available tools of these approaches. We sought to better understand these pathologies and to develop prognostic tools. We also seek to improve understanding of blood traits and their use as biomarkers in clinical practice. Our laboratory has a full-time bioinformatician to support students in computational analyses.

Research project description

Blood traits (number and characteristics of blood cells) influence many physiological processes, such as oxygen transport for red blood cells and defense against infection for white blood cells. The blood characteristics of newborn babies are unique, with two specific features. Firstly, they are under the combined influence of maternal and foetal factors. Secondly, fetal hemoglobin accounts for most of the newborn’s hemoglobin. As this hemoglobin has a greater affinity for oxygen, it favors the transport of this molecule from the mother to the fetus and the fetus growth. However, our knowledge of these specificities is limited. Indeed, the respective contributions of mother and fetus to the regulation of blood traits are unknown, and the impact of fetal hemoglobin variation on newborn growth has not been studied. These limitations complicate the interpretation of blood traits at birth. Nevertheless, the complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common tests performed on newborns to assess several blood traits. In clinical practice, interpretation of the abnormalities found in CBC is sometimes difficult because their consequences are unclear.

The genetics of blood traits, including fetal hemoglobin, have been extensively studied in adult populations. These data represent a valuable tool for addressing the challenges posed by blood traits at birth.

In this project, we propose to use different epidemiological (computational) genetic approaches to better understand the specificities of newborn blood traits and improve their clinical interpretation. In particular, the candidate will be required to carry out polygenic score analyses, mendelian randomization and multivariate analyses. He or she will work on two of the largest cohorts to have measured blood traits at birth, with genotyping data available for both mother and newborn.

This project can be carried out as part of a master’s degree, or deepened and extended if a PhD is desired.

Required training and profile

We are looking for a motivated person with an interest in epidemiological genetics and hematology. This person must have an interest in teamwork.

Some experience in the use of bioinformatics tools is required (prior use of R and Unix code). Knowledge of human biology, and in particular human genetics, is an asset.

A previous degree in biomedical sciences, genetics, bioinformatics or equivalent is required.

Students must have sufficient knowledge of French and English.

Applications with expertise in article writing and statistical data analysis will be preferred.

Conditions

The candidate must be enrolled at the Université de Montréal in a program relevant to the research topic (M.Sc. or Ph.D.). Funding will be granted for the duration of the program of study. All trainees will be required to apply for grants from granting agencies.

Submit your application

Candidates must send the required documents to Thomas Pincez at thomas.pincez@umontreal.ca.

Please provide:

  • Curriculum vitæ
  • Most recent transcripts
  • Cover letter
  • References

(November 2024)

Ph.D. project offer in Dr Thomas Pincez' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Sainte-Justine
Project title Clinical and biological impact of genetic determinants of  hemolysis
Study level(s) ☒ MSc ☒ PhD ☐ Postdoctorate
Principal investigator(s) Thomas Pincez, MD, PhD, FRCPC
Research axis Immune Diseases and Cancer
Project duration 2-4 years
Start date April 2025 (to be discussed according to availability)

Research laboratory presentation

Our laboratory focuses on blood traits and hematological diseases (red blood cell diseases and autoimmune cytopenias in particular), mainly using genomics and genetics approaches. Our aims to provide patients suffering from hematological pathologies with the best available tools of these approaches. We sought to better understand these pathologies and to develop prognostic tools. We also seek to improve understanding the genetic basis of hematological diseases. Our laboratory has a full-time bioinformatician to support students in computational analyses.

Research project description

Diseases of the red blood cell can lead to its destruction, a phenomenon known as hemolysis. This hemolysis leads to anemia of varying severity, which may require red blood cell transfusions. Genetic variants in red cell membrane genes are found in several hemolytic diseases. However, such variants can also be found in individuals without hemolysis. Thus, the impact of variants affecting red cell membrane genes is poorly understood and probably affected by the presence of variants in other genes and/or by underlying polygenic predisposition. This project aims to better understand the impact of variants associated with hemolysis and to identify the genetic contribution to hemolysis. This will also have a clinical impact by enabling better genetic counseling and management of patients with hemolytic disorders.

The candidate will work with large databases (>500,000 individuals) to search for variants in red cell disease genes. He/she will also carry out genome-wide association studies to identify the polygenic contribution to hemolysis. The impact of these variants and scores will be analyzed on patients’ biological and clinical data. Mendelian randomization will be used to analyze the causality of the associations found.

This project can be carried out as part of a master’s degree, or deepened and extended if a PhD is desired.

Required training and profile

We are looking for a motivated person with an interest in epidemiological genetics and hematology. This person must have an interest in teamwork.

Some experience in the use of bioinformatics tools is required (prior use of R and Unix code). Knowledge of human biology, and in particular human genetics, is an asset.

A previous degree in biomedical sciences, genetics, bioinformatics or equivalent is required.

Students must have sufficient knowledge of French and English.

Applications with expertise in article writing and statistical data analysis will be prioritized.

Conditions

The candidate must be enrolled at the Université de Montréal in a program relevant to the research topic (M.Sc. or Ph.D.). Funding will be granted for the duration of the program of study. All trainees will be required to apply for grants from granting agencies.

Submit your application

Candidates must send the required documents to Thomas Pincez at thomas.pincez@umontreal.ca.

Please provide:

  • Curriculum vitæ
  • Most recent transcripts
  • Cover letter
  • References

(November 2024)

Ph.D. project offer in Dr Hugo Wurtele' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont

DNA replication is a fundamental process that allows the duplication of genetic material and its subsequent transfer to daughter cells. DNA damage caused by environmental agents or anti-cancer drugs can prevent DNA replication and cause genomic instability. Our laboratory investigates the mechanisms that enable cells to respond to DNA damage that occurs during replication. Our research projects aim to better understand the impact of these mechanisms in the context of ovarian cancer and malignant melanoma. We use approaches from molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics, as well as experimental models ranging from yeast to cultured mammalian cells.

We are looking for candidates for MSc, PhD, or post-doctoral studies interested in cancer research and in fundamental mechanisms influencing genomic stability in eukaryotes. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria of the Molecular Biology program at the University of Montreal: previous studies in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology are essential. Candidates with laboratory experience and strong academic skills will be favored. The projects will be carried out at the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, a leading training facility affiliated with the University of Montreal, in Dr. Hugo Wurtele’s laboratory (https://crhmr.ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca/en/researcher/hugo-wurtele). Interested candidates should send a CV, letter of motivation, and university transcripts.

Relevant Publications:

Lemay J-F, St-Hilaire E, Gezzar-Dandashi S, McQuaid M, Ronato DA, Gao Y, Bélanger F, Sawchyn C, Kimenyi Ishimwe AB, Mallette FA, Masson J-Y, Drobetsky EA, Wurtele H (2022) A genome-wide screen identifies SCAI as a modulator of the UV-induced replicative stress response in human cells. PLoS Biol. 2022 Oct 10;20(10)

Bélanger F, Roussel C, Sawchyn C, Gezzar-Dandashi S, Mallette FA, Wurtele H*, Drobetsky EA* (2023) Control of UV damage repair during S phase via Dyrk1A-dependent regulation of cyclin D1/p21waf1cip1 stability. Journal of Biological Chemistry 8: 104900, doi: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104900

Bélanger F, Fortier E, Dubé M, Lemay JF, Buisson R, Masson JY, Elsherbiny A, Costantino S, Carmona E, Mes-Masson AM, Wurtele H, Drobetsky E. (2018) Replication Protein A Availability during DNA Replication Stress Is a Major Determinant of Cisplatin Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancer Res. 78:5561-5573

(August 2024)

Ph.D. project offer in Dr Sylvain Meloche's lab
IRIC

Two research positions are available in the Laboratory of Signaling and Cell Growth headed by Dr Sylvain Meloche and located at the Institut de Recherche en Immunologie et Cancérologie (IRIC) affiliated to Université de Montréal (http://www.iric.ca/).

The laboratory uses an interdisciplinary approach that combines molecular and cellular biology, functional genomics/proteomics, mouse genetics and chemical biology to understand how signal transduction pathways control cell fate of normal and cancer cells. Defining the importance and interconnection of these signaling events will further our understanding of the malignant transformation process and aid in the identification of new cancer targets for preclinical validation. Current research of the laboratory is focused on understanding the regulation and pathophysiological functions of members of the MAP kinases and SRC-family kinases, which are essential regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation. Several members of these protein kinase families have been shown to play causative roles in developmental disorders and various cancers. The laboratory has developed several models of genetically-engineered mice and chemical tools to study the role of these enzymes in cancer. Specifically, the team is actively involved in large-scale drug discovery projects aimed at developing novel small molecule inhibitors of ERK3/4 and YES kinases.

Specific projects:

  • Investigating the role of SRC-family kinases (SFKs) in immunogenic cell death and anti-tumor immunity

In addition to sustaining chronic proliferation, oncogenic signaling pathways also contribute to tumorigenesis by facilitating immune surveillance escape. Our preliminary findings suggest that SFKs regulate anti-tumor immune responses in specific cancers. Questions to address include: defining the role of different SFK members on immune cell populations using specific genetic and pharmacological tools; defining the role of SFKs in immunogenic cell death; investigating the role of SFKs in anti-tumor immunity in various mouse models of cancer; testing the pharmacological potential of SFK inhibition in combination with immunotherapy.

  • Investigating the role of ERK3/ERK4 signaling in cellular invasion and metastatic progression using cellular and mouse models of cancer

Accumulating evidence points to an important role of the atypical MAP kinases ERK3 and ERK4 in cancer development and progression. Genetic depletion of ERK3 reduces metastatic dissemination of lung and breast cancer cells. Among the questions we want to address are: defining the role of ERK3/ERK4 signaling in epithelial-mesenchymal transition; defining the role of ERK3/ERK4 in metastatic progression and cellular dormancy; elucidating the signaling network of ERK3/ERK4 driving cancer progression using a multi-omic approach. Validating the translational potential of ERK3/ERK4 using a novel generation of chemical inhibitors.

Candidates should have a degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, or related fields. Experience in molecular and cellular biology, immunology, or omics research is desirable. Interested individuals should send their full CV, a letter of motivation and the names of two references to:

Dr Sylvain Meloche
Professor of Pharmacology and Physiology
Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer
E-mail: sylvain.meloche@umontreal.ca
Phone: (514) 343-6966

(May 2024)

Postdoctoral Fellow
Postdoctoral Fellow offer in Dr Hugo Wurtele' s laboratory
Centre de Recherche de l'Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont

DNA replication is a fundamental process that allows the duplication of genetic material and its subsequent transfer to daughter cells. DNA damage caused by environmental agents or anti-cancer drugs can prevent DNA replication and cause genomic instability. Our laboratory investigates the mechanisms that enable cells to respond to DNA damage that occurs during replication. Our research projects aim to better understand the impact of these mechanisms in the context of ovarian cancer and malignant melanoma. We use approaches from molecular biology, biochemistry, and genetics, as well as experimental models ranging from yeast to cultured mammalian cells.

We are looking for candidates for MSc, PhD, or post-doctoral studies interested in cancer research and in fundamental mechanisms influencing genomic stability in eukaryotes. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria of the Molecular Biology program at the University of Montreal: previous studies in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology are essential. Candidates with laboratory experience and strong academic skills will be favored. The projects will be carried out at the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, a leading training facility affiliated with the University of Montreal, in Dr. Hugo Wurtele’s laboratory (https://crhmr.ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca/en/researcher/hugo-wurtele). Interested candidates should send a CV, letter of motivation, and university transcripts.

Relevant Publications:

Lemay J-F, St-Hilaire E, Gezzar-Dandashi S, McQuaid M, Ronato DA, Gao Y, Bélanger F, Sawchyn C, Kimenyi Ishimwe AB, Mallette FA, Masson J-Y, Drobetsky EA, Wurtele H (2022) A genome-wide screen identifies SCAI as a modulator of the UV-induced replicative stress response in human cells. PLoS Biol. 2022 Oct 10;20(10)

Bélanger F, Roussel C, Sawchyn C, Gezzar-Dandashi S, Mallette FA, Wurtele H*, Drobetsky EA* (2023) Control of UV damage repair during S phase via Dyrk1A-dependent regulation of cyclin D1/p21waf1cip1 stability. Journal of Biological Chemistry 8: 104900, doi: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104900

Bélanger F, Fortier E, Dubé M, Lemay JF, Buisson R, Masson JY, Elsherbiny A, Costantino S, Carmona E, Mes-Masson AM, Wurtele H, Drobetsky E. (2018) Replication Protein A Availability during DNA Replication Stress Is a Major Determinant of Cisplatin Resistance in Ovarian Cancer Cells. Cancer Res. 78:5561-5573

(August 2024)

Postdoctoral Fellow offer in Dr Sylvain Meloche's lab
IRIC

Two research positions are available in the Laboratory of Signaling and Cell Growth headed by Dr Sylvain Meloche and located at the Institut de Recherche en Immunologie et Cancérologie (IRIC) affiliated to Université de Montréal (http://www.iric.ca/).

The laboratory uses an interdisciplinary approach that combines molecular and cellular biology, functional genomics/proteomics, mouse genetics and chemical biology to understand how signal transduction pathways control cell fate of normal and cancer cells. Defining the importance and interconnection of these signaling events will further our understanding of the malignant transformation process and aid in the identification of new cancer targets for preclinical validation. Current research of the laboratory is focused on understanding the regulation and pathophysiological functions of members of the MAP kinases and SRC-family kinases, which are essential regulators of cell proliferation and differentiation. Several members of these protein kinase families have been shown to play causative roles in developmental disorders and various cancers. The laboratory has developed several models of genetically-engineered mice and chemical tools to study the role of these enzymes in cancer. Specifically, the team is actively involved in large-scale drug discovery projects aimed at developing novel small molecule inhibitors of ERK3/4 and YES kinases.

Specific projects:

  • Investigating the role of SRC-family kinases (SFKs) in immunogenic cell death and anti-tumor immunity

In addition to sustaining chronic proliferation, oncogenic signaling pathways also contribute to tumorigenesis by facilitating immune surveillance escape. Our preliminary findings suggest that SFKs regulate anti-tumor immune responses in specific cancers. Questions to address include: defining the role of different SFK members on immune cell populations using specific genetic and pharmacological tools; defining the role of SFKs in immunogenic cell death; investigating the role of SFKs in anti-tumor immunity in various mouse models of cancer; testing the pharmacological potential of SFK inhibition in combination with immunotherapy.

  • Investigating the role of ERK3/ERK4 signaling in cellular invasion and metastatic progression using cellular and mouse models of cancer

Accumulating evidence points to an important role of the atypical MAP kinases ERK3 and ERK4 in cancer development and progression. Genetic depletion of ERK3 reduces metastatic dissemination of lung and breast cancer cells. Among the questions we want to address are: defining the role of ERK3/ERK4 signaling in epithelial-mesenchymal transition; defining the role of ERK3/ERK4 in metastatic progression and cellular dormancy; elucidating the signaling network of ERK3/ERK4 driving cancer progression using a multi-omic approach. Validating the translational potential of ERK3/ERK4 using a novel generation of chemical inhibitors.

Candidates should have a degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, or related fields. Experience in molecular and cellular biology, immunology, or omics research is desirable. Interested individuals should send their full CV, a letter of motivation and the names of two references to:

Dr Sylvain Meloche
Professor of Pharmacology and Physiology
Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer
E-mail: sylvain.meloche@umontreal.ca
Phone: (514) 343-6966

(May 2024)