Research positions in Understanding spinal cord circuits in scoliosis using genetics and exercise

Overview

Cancer immunotherapy can induce potent anti-tumour immune responses; however, disease relapse remains a major clinical challenge, often driven by tumour immune escape. Defining the mechanisms that underlie tumour remission and subsequent relapse is essential for improving the long-term effectiveness of immunotherapeutic strategies.

Our preliminary studies using a mouse melanoma model have identified distinct transcriptomic changes during tumour regression and relapse. These findings reveal a shift from immune activation during remission to tissue remodelling and immune suppression at relapse.

The overall aim of this project is to characterise the immune and structural alterations that accompany tumour remission and relapse following immunotherapy. By experimentally validating transcriptomic findings, this research will provide new insights into mechanisms of immune escape and may inform strategies to prevent tumour relapse after treatment.

The successful student will undertake a combination of in vivo and tissue-based analyses, including:

• Performing adoptive cell transfer (ACT) in tumour-bearing mice and collecting tumours at defined time points
• Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining of tumour tissues at early remission, stable remission, and relapse
• Analysis of tumour structural changes, including extracellular matrix deposition and cytoskeletal organisation
• Integration of phenotypic and histological data with existing transcriptomic datasets to explore mechanisms driving tumour relapse

Student requirements

• Highly motivated postgraduate students with a background in biomedical science, immunology, pathology, or a related discipline
• A one-year master’s by thesis student is strongly preferred, although suitable honours candidates are also encouraged to apply
• Prior experience in mouse handling and monitoring, tissue dissection/digestion, or histology is highly desirable; however, full training will be provided

How to apply

Please send the following to Dr Kunyu Li at kunyu.li@otago.ac.nz:

• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Academic transcript
• A brief statement outlining your research interests and motivation

Applications will be assessed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Contact

Contact nameKunyu LiTel+64 21 155 9148