Dr. Simon Turcotte is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to join his translational cancer immunology laboratory for a cutting-edge preclinical research project focused on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). The project has two main objectives:

1. To develop novel strategies for the selection and expansion of neoantigen-reactive, self-renewing TIL, specifically from colorectal cancer liver metastases.
2. To investigate the mechanisms that inhibit TIL function within liver metastases using spatial transcriptomics.

This research builds on a robust single-cell CITE-seq dataset in which TIL have been deeply characterized for their T-cell receptors (TCRs) and neoantigen reactivity.

The CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal) is one of only two centers in Canada offering TIL immunotherapy to cancer patients as part of a research program led by Dr. Turcotte. His team, comprising more than 20 members, is based in one of the largest hospital-based research centers in the country, with state-of-the-art infrastructure in the heart of vibrant downtown Montreal. 

Job description

The postdoctoral fellow will analyze single T cell CITE-seq datasets, plan and execute novel TIL expansion experiments and test the phenotype, function, tumor-reactivity, and metabolic features of the T cells obtained, will plan and analyze spatial transcriptomic (Xenium) to locate neoantigen-reactive TIL in situ and characterize the molecular and cellular interaction with neighbouring cells.

Responsibilities

• Perform CITEseq single cell sequencing and 10x Xenium analyses
• Design and execute laboratory experiments
• Expanding human immune cells (TIL and B lymphocytes, DCs).
• Co-culture of TIL vs target cells to evaluate T cell reactivity (FACS, ELISA, ELISpot, transcriptome).
• Phenotyping by multiparameter flow cytometry
• Supervision of students involved in certain parts of the project.
• Assist and present data at lab meeting, meetings with collaborator, scientific meetings

Qualifications

• PhD in immunology of cancer, solid organ transplant, chronic infections, or auto-immunity.
• Self-motivation, scientific curiosity, aim for a career as scientist.
• Proficiency in transcriptomic analysis, multiparameter FACS, cell culture of human immune cells, immune assays
• Bioinformatics analysis with R
• Excellent project management skills
• Excellent publication profile and writing capacity
• Fluent in written and spoken English; understand and can communicate in French.
• Flexibility in working hours.

What we offer

• Full-time position, 35 hours per week, daytime hours, Monday to Friday
• Flexible schedule
• Start date: As soon as possible
• Duration: The position is for one or two years
• Salary: The fellow will be enrolled at the University of Montreal and paid according to the conditions in effect at the CHUM Research Centre

To apply for this position

Interested candidates should send their cover letter, CV, and the names of two references to: 
 nathalie.brassard.chum@ssss.gouv.qc.ca

It is essential that you attach your CV for your application to be considered.

We thank all applicants, but will only contact those selected for testing or an interview.

The CRCHUM invites applications from women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities. The CRCHUM adopts a broad and inclusive definition of diversity that goes beyond applicable laws.

The CRCHUM therefore encourages all individuals, regardless of their characteristics, to apply. In accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, please note that priority will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.