Two PhD positions in Metabolomics

The Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics group of the department of Chemistry currently offers two PhD positions for two different research projects in Metabolomics.

Position 1: T-cell immuno-metabolism
Regulatory T cells inhibit the response of conventional T cells to self-and foreign antigens. Regulatory T cells thereby prevent autoimmune reactions, but can also impede anti-tumour immunity. The activation of regulatory and conventional T cells requires that these cells undergo changes in their metabolism. The exact mechanisms underlying such metabolic switches differ between various T cell types and are largely unknown. By mapping metabolic differences between T cells types, novel targets for therapeutic intervention can be identified, which could benefit patients suffering from for example autoimmune diseases or cancer.

In this collaborative project between Utrecht University and the Leiden University Medical Centre, you will combine mass spectrometry and metabolomics with immunology to study the metabolism of regulatory and conventional T cells. You will develop mass spectrometry methods to measure metabolic activities in human T cells and use these to identify targetable metabolic pathways in T cells. You will also become part of the ‘Institute for Chemical Immunology’, which brings together Chemists and Immunologists working across the Netherlands. Ideally, you have a background in metabolism or immunology. Hands-on MS experience is preferred, but not essential at the start.

Position 2: cancer metabolism
Changes in metabolism are increasingly regarded as one of the hallmarks of cancer cells. Malignant cells rewire multiple aspects of their metabolism to fulfill the higher demand for energy, to produce building blocks for proliferation, and to maintain their redox balance. Recent studies show that metabolism is further adjusted when cells become resistant to anti-cancer therapies. Metabolism thereby offers novel entry points that can potentially be exploited to overcome drug resistance in cancer.

In this interdisciplinary project, you will bridge mass spectrometry and metabolomics with cancer biology to study how metabolic changes contribute to drug resistance in cancer. You will develop innovative metabolomics methods to study metabolism in complex in-vitro model systems such as organoids, and apply these to identify novel targetable metabolic pathways in drug-resistant tumours. Ideally, you have a background in metabolism or experience in working with complex in-vitro models. Hands-on MS experience is preferred, but not essential at the start.