Open positions
Two DC positions open for applications until 20 July 2026
INT2ACT is seeking talented and motivated candidates with the skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm to help the network achieve significant research breakthroughs. Doctoral Candidates (DCs) will enrol in PhD degree programmes and be employed for 36 months in a network comprising 11 beneficiaries and 10 associated partners from 8 European countries, Israel, and China.
DC13: RNA interference-based lipid nanoparticles as next-generation therapeutic vehicles for solid tumours treatment
In this project, we will develop RNA interference (RNAi)-based lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as therapeutic vehicles for solid tumours. We will optimise lipid composition to ensure efficient RNA encapsulation, stability, and tumour-targeted delivery, while minimising the off-target effects. The formulations will be tested for tumour penetration, gene silencing activity, and in vivo biodistribution, with the aim of establishing a robust nanoparticle platform for clinical translation. Read the full project description and specific requirements here.
Host institution:
Supervisor: Prof. Avi Schroeder
Co-Supervisors: Prof. Rory Johnson, University College Dublin (Academic); Dr. Jeny Shklover, Technion – Israel Institute of Tehnology (Academic); Roy Nevo, Mana Bio Ltd. (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Rory Johnson, University College Dublin, Ireland;
- Roy Nevo, Mana Bio Ltd., Israel.
DC14: Development of p53 expressing lipid nanoparticles to target tumour microenvironment (TME) for breast cancer treatment
In this project, we will develop lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) carrying the p53 mRNA for targeted delivery to the tumour microenvironment (TME) in breast cancer. We will design and optimise LNPs for efficient mRNA encapsulation, stability, and selective uptake by triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) microenvironment cells, including fibroblasts, immune cells and dendritic cells. The formulations will be characterised in vitro and tested in TNBC mouse models to assess biodistribution, TME accumulation, and therapeutic benefit. Read the full project description and specific requirements here.
Host institution: Technion Research and Development Foundation, Haifa, Israel
Supervisor: Prof. Avi Schroeder
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Dafne Campigli, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (Academic); Dr. Jeny Shklover, Technion – Israel Institute of Tehnology (Academic); Roy Nevo, Mana Bio Ltd. (Industrial).
Secondments: This project is carried out in strong collaboration with the following groups, and visits to their laboratories are expected during the project:
- Dr. Francesco Nicassio,, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Italy;
- Roy Nevo, Mana Bio Ltd., Israel.
What INT2ACT will offer
- A thorough scientific education in the frame of a doctoral training program.
- The possibility to participate in specific international courses, workshops and conferences.
- Strong involvement in a European research project with high international visibility.
- The possibility to perform research visits to internationally renowned research labs in Europe.
- A prestigious three-year MSCA Fellowship.
Who can apply
- Applicants can be of any nationality.
- Applicants must hold a MSc or equivalent in the field required for the corresponding vacancy.
- Applicants must be eligible to enrol on a PhD programme at the host institution (or at a designated university in case the host institution is a non-academic organisation).
- Applicants must have the necessary academic skills and background to make the success of a doctoral degree.
- Additionally, DC applicants must fulfill the local requirements of the recruiting institutions.
How to apply
To apply, please send an email to int2act@gmail.com with all the required documents and the video.
Please title the email: “INT2ACT application for DC#, [your first and last name]”.
Required application materials:
- Up to 2-minute personal video explaining your motivation to join the lab.
- Application form.
- Curriculum vitae et studiorum.
- Contact details of up to three referees.
- A certificate of University examinations taken (with marks).
- A final degree certificate translated into English. If, at the time of application, candidates should not be yet in possession of a degree certificate, they can submit it at the time of the examination.
Who we are looking for
- MSc, MRes, MEng, or equivalent in Life Science (Biology, Biochemistry, etc.), Biotechnology, Chemistry or a related discipline.
- Research experience, in particular in cellular and molecular biology techniques.
- Interested in nucleic acid (NA) therapeutics for personalised medicine by advancing current methodologies for the detection and sequencing, synthesis and analysis and target identification and delivery of NAs .
- Appreciation for interdisciplinary work and proactive drive to collaborate across disciplines.
- Proficient in the English language.
- For detailed requirements, see the project description of your choice.