The Hepatology: Carcinogenesis and Liquid Biopsy team led by Dr. Carmen Berasain at CIMA , is seeking to hire a PhD researcher for the SLUTAREG project funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation (MICIU) 2025 R&D; grant PID2025-168146OB-I00 to explore the SLU7–TAZ–AREG axis in liver cancer, from molecular mechanisms to novel therapies and biomarkers.

The PhD candidate will join the SLUTAREG project “Characterization of the therapeutic potential of the SLU7-TAZ-AREG axis in liver cancer ( SLUTAREG ),” focused on identifying novel molecular vulnerabilities and therapeutic opportunities in liver cancer, particularly hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

The project investigates the SLU7–TAZ–AREG axis , combining basic molecular research with preclinical and translational approaches to understand how alterations in protein homeostasis contribute to tumor progression and immune evasion .

The candidate will join our group with a large experience in the field of translational hepatology to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which the splicing factor SLU7 regulates protein stability and activity , as well as the functional consequences of this regulation for liver cancer development. The project will also explore SLU7 and AREG as potential therapeutic targets and evaluate their contribution to the tumor microenvironment and anti-tumor immune responses.

The PhD student will receive multidisciplinary training and will participate in:

- Molecular and cellular studies using human and mouse liver cancer models, gene silencing, gene expression, protein stability, signaling and functional assays.




- Studies using patient-derived bile organoids to investigate tumor biology and therapeutic responses in clinically relevant models.
- Preclinical liver cancer models to characterize the role of the SLU7–TAZ–AREG axis in tumor development and to evaluate novel therapeutic strategies.
- Development and evaluation of innovative approaches for RNA-based targeted therapies, including siRNAs, aptamer–siRNA conjugates and nanoparticle-based delivery systems.
- Characterization of the impact of SLU7 and AREG targeting on the tumor immune microenvironment.
- Analysis of patient-derived samples to identify biomarkers with potential diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic value.
- Integration and interpretation of molecular, preclinical and clinical data, as well as preparation of scientific publications and presentation of results at national and international conferences.

Overall, the thesis will provide comprehensive training in molecular oncology, RNA biology, organoid technology, preclinical cancer models and translational research , with the ultimate goal of identifying new therapeutic strategies and biomarkers for liver cancer. This position is related to a Ministry of Science and Innovation (MICIU) 2025 R&D; grant PID2025-168146OB-I00.

Requirements

- Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.
- Strong interest in cancer biology, molecular biology and translational research.
- Experience in molecular and cellular biology is desirable.
- Interest in learning advanced experimental models.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Strong motivation, critical thinking, organizational skills and scientific curiosity.
- Good written and spoken English communication skills.
- Eligibility to apply for an FPI predoctoral fellowship

📌 PhD Position in Translational Liver Cancer Research (Pamplona)
🏢 CIMA; Universidad de Navarra
📍 Pamplona