Postdoctoral Research Scientist - Dr Payam Gammage

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Beatson lab: Mitochondrial Oncogenetics

Dr Payam Gammage

Project Title:  The impact of mitochondrial DNA mutation on tumour microenvironments

Contract term: Fixed up to 6 years, subject to successful review at Year 3

About us

The CRUK Beatson Institute where the lab is based is a world leading cancer research institute, situated in the vibrant city of Glasgow in Scotland and hosting approximately 60 postdoctoral researcher scientists at any one time. It has an excellent reputation for fundamental cancer research, including world-class metabolism studies and renowned in vivo modelling of tumour growth and metastasis.

Project outline

The majority of cancers bear mutations of the mitochondrial genome. Our recent work has identified recurrence and selection of these mutations in tumours (Gorelick et al., 2021, Nature Metabolism) and forthcoming papers from our lab show that a key impact of these mutations is altered tumour metabolism, driving divergent tumour microenvironments that mediate susceptibility to treatment (Mahmood et al., 2023, biorXiv). In the Mitochondrial Oncogenetics Lab at CRUK BI, we have developed and applied advanced mitochondrial genome engineering techniques to create models of mitochondrial mutant cancer that we study in a variety of contexts.

We aim to develop a broad understanding of the impact mtDNA mutations exert within and between tissue lineages, and this project will define the impact of recurrent mtDNA mutations on cancer metabolism, tumour growth and the immune microenvironment.

The successful applicant will be highly enthusiastic, driven to succeed and already have or soon be completing a PhD in mitochondrial biology, cancer or immunology. Experience of any of the following: single cell approaches, cancer genomics, in vivo cancer modelling and/or quantitative approaches to metabolic science are desirable but not essential.

Gorelick AN, et al., 2021, Respiratory complex and tissue lineage drive recurrent mutations in tumor mtDNA. Nature Metabolism. 3:558-570.

Kim M, et al., 2022, Mitochondrial DNA is a major source of driver mutations in cancer. Trends in Cancer. 8:1046-1059.

Mahmood et al., 2023, Tumour mitochondrial DNA mutations drive aerobic glycolysis to enhance checkpoint blockade. biorXiv. https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.03.21.533091

For informal enquiries, please email payam.gammage@glasgow.ac.uk

Postdoc support

Postdocs are key members of our research community, and we offer them a range of opportunities to train and develop as researchers while they are with us:

• Exciting, innovative cancer research projects in state-of-the art labs A highly collaborative and interactive research environment Access to and training in key advanced technologies, for example imaging and in vivo modelling A mentor enabling scheme to aid personal and professional development A rich programme of scientific exchange through seminars, workshops and meetings Support to make fellowship and small grant applications, including during their transition to their next position Guidance and mentoring to compete for an independent scientist position as well as a multitude of other career options, including in industry. A highly engaged postdoc forum, providing peer support, training, careers advice and regular social events

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Our overarching research ethos at the Institute is about excellence, honesty, openness, accountability and integrity. The diversity of our staff and students is also what makes the Institute such a vibrant place to work and advance discoveries in cancer research. Family friendly policies, our collaborative ethos, a focus on good mental health and well-being and opportunities for all help to create an enjoyable and inclusive workplace where your voice matters.

The Institute is also committed to increasing the number of female scientists at the postdoc level and beyond and encourages female applicants to apply. We have recently introduced a highly attractive maternity policy which provides 12-18 months support and funding for postdocs wishing to take time off to spend with their children amongst other family friendly policies 

Employee Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 40.5 days annual leave including bank holidays (pro-rata)
• Defined Contribution pension scheme
• Life Insurance scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan
• Additional maternity pay at 6 month’s full pay (subject to service)
• Shared parental leave
• Cycle to work scheme that could save you 26-40% on a bike and accessories.
• Access to Employee benefit schemes with discounts on supermarkets, cinema, travel and much more.
• On-site secure parking

All applications must be made via our website at http://www.beatson.gla.ac.uk/careers/postdoctoral-fellows/

Closing Date: Friday 2^nd June 2023 but we may contact promising candidates on a rolling basis, so please apply as soon as you are ready.