Postdoctoral Position in Biomaterials and Cancer Immunotherapy (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

The postdoctoral researcher will join an interdisciplinary research team developing next-generation immunoactive biomaterials aimed at improving the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies, particularly in the context of solid tumors. The project is embedded within a translational research environment at the interface of immunology, biomaterials, and bioengineering, with the goal of developing innovative platforms capable of enhancing the survival, activation, expansion, and antitumor function of immune cells.

The successful candidate will contribute to the development of novel strategies based on injectable biomaterials and advanced delivery systems designed to overcome the biological and immunosuppressive barriers of the tumor microenvironment. The research conducted within this project will help accelerate the translation of innovative technologies toward preclinical and, ultimately, clinical applications.

Activity

* Design, develop, and optimize advanced biomaterials for cancer immunotherapy, particularly for the delivery and functional support of T cells and other immune cell populations.
* Contribute to the functionalization of biomaterials with proteins, antibodies, cytokines, and other immunomodulatory agents to regulate immune cell activation and responses.
* Perform in vitro studies involving the isolation, culture, expansion, and characterization of primary human immune cells, including dendritic cells and T lymphocytes.
* Evaluate the effects of biomaterials on immune cell viability, proliferation, activation, migration, and effector functions using a range of cellular and molecular biology techniques.
* Conduct and analyze functional assays, including flow cytometry, ELISA, qRT-PCR, cellular imaging, and other immunological characterization approaches.
* Participate in the design, execution, and analysis of preclinical studies in murine cancer models to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of the developed biomaterials.
* Investigate the synergistic effects of biomaterials in combination with other therapeutic approaches, including cellular immunotherapies and targeted therapies.
* Perform statistical analyses, interpret experimental data, and contribute to the dissemination and valorization of scientific findings.
* Contribute to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, research reports, grant applications, and presentations for national and international conferences.
* Participate in the supervision of students and contribute to the development of collaborations with academic, clinical, and industrial partners involved in the project.

The successful candidate will work in a dynamic and highly collaborative scientific environment benefiting from complementary expertise in polymer chemistry, biomaterials, nanotechnology, microfabrication, tissue engineering, targeted drug delivery, and cancer immunotherapy.

Your Profil

Skills

The successful candidate must hold a PhD in biomaterials, bioengineering, immunoengineering, immuno-oncology, cancer immunotherapy, or a related field. A strong background in the culture and characterization of immune cells, particularly dendritic cells (DCs) and T lymphocytes, is required. The candidate should be proficient in a broad range of molecular and cellular biology techniques, including qRT-PCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and flow cytometry.

Expertise in the isolation, culture, manipulation, and characterization of primary human immune cells, as well as in the design and execution of immune cell-based functional assays, is highly desirable. Experience with preclinical in vivo cancer immunotherapy models will be considered a major asset.

Candidates with a strong scientific track record, demonstrated through publications in peer-reviewed international journals, will be particularly competitive. Prior experience in cancer immunotherapy, tumor biology, or cellular therapies (especially CAR T-cell therapy) is highly valued. Familiarity with biomaterials and tissue engineering approaches will be considered an advantage, although training and mentorship in these areas can be provided.

Beyond technical expertise, we seek a dynamic, independent, and highly motivated individual capable of thriving in a multidisciplinary and international research environment. Excellent communication, teamwork, and student mentoring skills are expected, along with a strong desire to contribute to ambitious collaborative projects at the interface of immunology, biomaterials, and translational medicine.

Applicants should submit:
• A cover letter describing their research background, scientific interests, and career goals;
• A complete curriculum vitae, including a full list of publications;
• Contact information for three academic or professional references.

Join a dynamic CNRS research team and contribute to the development of next-generation immunoactive biomaterials designed to transform cancer immunotherapy and address major global healthcare challenges.

Your Work Environment

The position is funded for an initial period of 6 months, with the possibility of extension up to 12 months, subject to project progress, availability of funding, and the required administrative approvals.

The postdoctoral researcher will be employed by the CNRS, the largest public research organization in Europe. The successful candidate will join the research group of Dr. Sidi A. Bencherif within the Polymers, Biopolymers, and Surfaces Laboratory (PBS, CNRS UMR 6270) at the University of Rouen Normandy, France.

PBS is a joint research unit of the CNRS and INSA Rouen Normandy, internationally recognized for its expertise at the interface of chemistry, materials science, and life sciences. The laboratory develops innovative polymers and biomaterials through multidisciplinary approaches combining macromolecular chemistry, physical chemistry, biology, and biomedical engineering. Its research addresses major healthcare challenges, particularly in the fields of tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, immunotherapy, and advanced biomaterials.

The laboratory comprises more than 45 permanent staff members, including faculty members, CNRS researchers, engineers, and technical personnel, providing a stimulating and highly collaborative scientific environment. The successful candidate will benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities and a broad network of national and international collaborations.

The project will also leverage close collaborations with the Rouen University Hospital (CHU de Rouen) as well as leading academic partners across Europe, America, and Asia. This unique research environment will provide the candidate with outstanding opportunities to contribute to the development of next-generation biomaterials and accelerate their translation toward clinical applications.

Constraints and risks

Chemical hazards.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

3072-3500€

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

The research professions