Mechanisms of FLASH Radiotherapy

The hosting structure
The Curie Institute Research Center
The “Institut Curie” is a major player in the research and fight against cancer. It consists of a hospital and a
Research Center of more than 1000 employees with a strong international representativeness. The objective of the Curie Institute Research Center is to develop basic research and to use the knowledge produced to improve the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutics of cancers as part of the continuum between basic research and innovation serving the patient.

Job description
Laboratory
The “Repair, Radiation, and Innovative Cancer Therapies” team (U1021/UMR3347/Université Paris
Saclay) specializes in developing new therapeutic strategies aimed at increasing the therapeutic index of
radiotherapy. One of the team’s research focuses is understanding the molecular mechanisms of
toxicities induced by radiotherapy, particularly how FLASH radiotherapy (Favaudon et al. Science
Translational Medicine 2014) can reduce the development of pulmonary toxicities while maintaining
anti-tumor efficacy comparable to that of conventional radiotherapy (i.e., the FLASH effect). In close
collaboration with clinicians (radiotherapists, pulmonologists, and thoracic surgeons) at the Institut
Curie and the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris, the team seeks to characterize, from patient samples, the
cellular and molecular effects of various innovative radiotherapy methods (e.g., FLASH radiotherapy)
using molecular approaches (scRNAseq, spatial RNA profiling).

Research Project
Preclinical studies in mice have identified several mechanistic pathways that might explain the FLASH
effect. Our current objective is to test these different mechanistic hypotheses using relevant cellular
models (e.g., organoids/tumoroids, organotypic slices). Therefore, we are seeking a motivated researcher
to take charge of this project in collaboration with other team members. The selected candidate will have
recently completed their PhD, with experience in the use of innovative cellular models and a quantitative
approach to biological processes. They will aim to: i) integrate into a dynamic, and supportive team, ii)
address fundamental questions to accelerate the clinical transfer of new radiotherapy methods, iii) work
in an interdisciplinary environment integrating biologists, physicists, and clinicians

Missions
• Establish and use innovative cellular models (e.g., organoids/tumoroids, organotypic slices)
from patients’ samples.
• Conduct single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and spatial analyses (smFISH) experiments.
• Analyze sequencing data (RNAseq/single-cell RNAseq) and microscopy images.
Candidate Profile
Training and experience required
• PhD in cell biology
• Experience in developing innovative cellular models (e.g., organoids/tumoroids)
• Expertise in microscopy and image analysis methods
• Knowledge of programming languages (Python, R)
• Proficiency in statistical analysis with R software
Skills
• Motivated and able to work independently
• Curious and proactive are key assets
• Essential team spirit
• Ability to communicate effectively with biologists and physicians
All our opportunities are open to people with disabilities
Contract information
Type of contract: CDD
Starting date: July 2024
Duration: 18 months (with extension possibility)
Working time: full time
Remuneration: according to the current grids
Benefits: Collective catering, reimbursement of transportation fees up to 70%, supplementary health
insurance
Location of the position: Orsay- near public transportation
Contact
Please send your CV, letter of motivation and 2 references, to job-ref-n7kzr8gpjh@emploi.beetween.com
Deadline for application: Monday 1st of July 2024