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The incidence of cancer is a global problem; according to GLOBOCAN, the incidence will reach 28.4 million patients worldwide by 2040. Among death-causing tumors/cancers, salivary gland tumors (SGTs) are challenging to diagnose because of their stochastic nature, heterogenic histopathological, and genetic diversity (largely unexplored variety of entities and subtypes). Therefore, establishing a novel diagnostics approach through a combination of effective cancer detection/diagnosis methods and treatment modalities for clinical uses is a formidable need and challenge. Here, we propose an alternative realization of diagnostics based on the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique for salivary gland tumors-derived Exosomes. The Project is interdisciplinary, and its innovative character involves the development of a novel DEP/SERS-mediated aptasensors to isolate/capture EVs from blood and saliva samples and their molecular characterization for the first time in one technology. The SERS-based proteomic profiling will be validated by complementary mass spectrometry. Moreover, the BLI and SERS as dual control systems will be used to characterize developed recognition unit performance and quantify its sensitivity and detectability. We will also use traditional chemometric methods and classical machine-learning models to extract the biochemical information encoded in the complex SERS signature. The developed tools enable a new method for the isolation, identification, enumeration, and molecular characterization of EVs, providing the opportunity for a real-time "liquid biopsy" that opens new ways for cancer diagnostics.

Postdoc will be recruited to participate in all parts of the project, especially including:

 1. Structural modelling of the initially selected aptamers via e.g.,  RNAfold for 2D RNA structure prediction and via e.g., AutoDock/Rosetta for 3D structure prediction.

2. Modelling aptamer-exosome interactions.

3. Developing SERS-based machine learning-enabled classification model capable of distinguishing the studied samples with desired accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and  specificity for clinical applications.

4. Assistance in conducting doctoral theses.

5. Writing scientific publications and presentation of scientific results at international scientific conferences.     

We offer a post-doctoral position (full-time employment) in the Institute of Physical Chemistry PAS with a gross salary of Around 9650 PLN gross per month financed from the NCN  OPUS 28 nr UMO-2024/55/B/ST4/01457 entilted:

"Aptamer-mediated SERS/DEP Biosensors for proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles of salivary gland tumors: towards cutting-edge cancer diagnostics".

100% of the work time of Postdoc will be devoted to the realization of the proposed project. The offer is for 24 months   

We offer work in a young, dynamically developing team with modern research infrastructure. Funds are allocated to cover participation in international conferences and for short visits in collaborating laboratory. We plan to publish the results of the work in high impact factor journals.

The successful candidate will be eligible for all programs at the IPC PAS, including the IPC PAS Young Scientists competition and the IPC PAS Young Scientists Mobility competition.

Institute provides an opportunity to participate in ERASMUS+ programme.

1. A PhD in chemistry, physics, or biology obtained during the year of employment in the project or within 12 years prior to January 1st of the year of employment in the project. For researchers with multiple doctorates, the reference date is the date of award of the first doctoral degree. Extensions may apply in accordance with the regulations of the National Science Centre. For researchers with multiple PhDs, the date of the first PhD award is deemed the reference date. Extension might apply according to National Science Centre, Poland, rules (this period might be longer due to family reasons according to NCN rules).

2. Additionally, the candidate for the postdoctoral position must meet the following conditions: she/he did not have PI Agnieszka Michota-Kamińska as her/his research supervisor or auxiliary supervisor of her/his PhD dissertation.

3. Experience in chemometeric analysis, statistics and/or machine learning and molecular modelling tools.

4. Experience in programming (e.g. Python, R language), will be an advantage.

5. Experience in Raman or SERS data analysis is welcome.

6. Ability to communicate fluently in English (written and spoken).

7. Strong motivation to work and solving scientific problems and analytical thinking.

The Recruitment Commission will take into account the following criteria:

- competencies for specific tasks in the research project

- knowledge of Raman or SERS data analysis is welcome.

- experience in chemometeric analysis, statistics and/or machine learning and molecular modelling tools.

- previous scientific achievements awards and distinctions resulting from the conducted research.