- We are seeking highly motivated candidates to undertake a PhD project in the field of myeloid neoplasm immunology, specifically focused on the Identification of Cooperative Immune Evasion Mechanisms between Stem Cells and the Bone Marrow Niche in Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) .
- The project builds on previous findings from the research group, which revealed that the immune niche of the bone marrow in MDS patients is composed of T cells in dormant or immunosuppressive states. These data, together with recent publications, suggest that this is due, at least in part, to incomplete antigenic activation and co-stimulation of T cells, despite the expression of tumor-specific antigens by malignant stem cells.
- The candidate will investigate the ability of these tumor antigens to stimulate T cells, the responsiveness of T cells themselves, the role of cytokines secreted into the niche in these processes, and the effectiveness of manipulating these factors to reactivate the immune response.



The aim of the project is to elucidate the main mechanisms preventing proper activation of anti-tumor T-cell responses and to identify potential therapeutic intervention opportunities in MDS.
- The student will join the Myelodysplastic Neoplasms research group, led by Dr. Irene Gañán Gómez, within the Hematology-Oncology Program at CIMA Universidad de Navarra, and the Cancer Center Clínica Universidad de Navarra. Dr. Gañán Gómez has an extensive track record in hemato-oncology and has made significant contributions to the field of MDS, including publications in Nature Communications, Nature Medicine, and Clinical Cancer Research.
- The Myelodysplastic Neoplasms group, currently composed of three PhD students and Dr. Gañán Gómez, was established in 2023 to conduct comprehensive research into the pathogenesis of myelodysplastic syndromes and to identify targets for the development of novel therapies. The group focuses on both extrinsic pathogenic mechanisms affecting tumor cells (such

📌 PhD Position in Myeloid Neoplasm Immunology within the Hematology (España)
🏢 FUNDACION PARA LA INVESTIGACION MEDICA APLICADA
📍 España