Postdoctoral Candidate in Preclinical Imaging / Preclinical Pharmacology – Cancer Research

Project’s description: Peptide radionuclide therapy (PRT) face a growing interest since the past few years, after the FDA/EMA approval of two groundbreaking radiolabeled peptides: Lutathera ([177Lu]Lu-DOTATATE) and Pluvicto ([177Lu]Lu-vivipotide tetraxetan), for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and castration resistant prostate cancer, respectively. Our team is currently working on the design of novel peptides with intrinsic antitumor properties, intended to be functionalized with gamma, beta or alpha radionuclides, with the aim of achieving a theranostic application on advanced pancreatic and colorectal cancers. The postdoctoral candidate would work on the preclinical evaluation of the best peptide “hits” through pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) studies on murine models of orthotopic pancreatic cancer and disseminated peritoneal carcinomatosis of pancreas or colonic origins. The candidate will be expected to conduct in vivo experiments in mice, from tumor implantation to ex vivo tumor analysis (IHC, WB), to study the biological effect of modified peptides on cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and apoptosis. Tumor growth will be monitored using bioluminescence imaging (IVIS). The first-round of peptide selection will be performed using near-infrared fluorescence imaging (IVIS). Peptide radiolabeling will then be carried out by our radiochemistry team. The candidate will conduct biodistribution and dosimetry studies using in vivo longitudinal imaging (SPECT-CT or PET-CT) followed by quantification and ex vivo analysis of organs before evaluating the peptides’ ability to potentiate PRT. The project aims at identifying at least one “lead” exhibiting strong antitumor activity and PRT potentiation for translation into first-in human clinical studies. Applicant’s desired background: - - - - - - - - - Significant hands-on experience (at least 2 years) with mice models. Expertise with tumor models (in vitro and in vivo). Previous experience in performing in vivo imaging techniques (bioluminescence, f luorescence and/or PET, SPECT). Experience with handling radiolabeled compounds would be an asset but is not mandatory. The candidate will be fully-trained by our CRP staff concerning radioactive material handling, good laboratory practices, and radioprotection. Experience with tissue and sample analysis (Western-blot, IHC, ELISA, IF, etc.) is desired but not mandatory. Proficiency to design and conduct experiments. Proficiency in data analysis, including statistical analysis. Team working and interest for multidisciplinary research. The candidate will be integrated into a young and dynamic team, composed of people with diverse expertise working in close collaboration. Project meetings and lab meetings are being held frequently. Fluency in French is not required. However, the candidate will be offered the possibility to take French courses at the University of Clermont Auvergne if they wish. Project’s duration: 24 to 36 months. The subsidies will depend on the candidate’s experience. Application process: Please send your curriculum along with the name and contact information of at least two referees to Aurelie Rondon (aurelie.rondon@inserm.fr) before April 1st 2026. Interviews will be held remotely using Teams. The application process may be closed earlier if a candidate meets the required criteria.