We are interested in the biological, biochemical and biophysical properties of integrin-mediated adhesion to fibronectin and how these properties influence mammalian tissue homeostasis and pathology such as chronic inflammation and cancer. We combine single molecule approaches, cell biology with biochemistry and mouse models to obtain a comprehensive and deep understanding of extracellular matrix influence in cell ligation and mechanosignaling.

The University of Valencia is implementing since 2017 the Human Resources Strategy for Researchers (HRS4R),this seal recognizes the University’s ability to attract talent, create a favourable work conditions, encourage research and enhance the careers of researchers in Europe: https://www.uv.es/uvweb/research-service/en/uv-research/human-resources-strategy-researchers-1286005500771.html

Brief description of the project: Abundant experimental evidences support that the extracellular matrices (ECM) surrounding malignant solid tumors have an increased stiffness, which potentiates de-differentiation, proliferation and invasion of tumor cells. The project will explore novel approaches to prevent/reduce tumor growth and invasiveness by diminishing tumor cell mechanosensing alone or in combination with strategies impairing cell adhesion. Our aim is to disrupt signaling pathways that, like YAP/TAZ activation, translate ECM stiffness into cell de-differentiation, proliferation and survival.

Documents to be submitted by the candidates: Curriculum vitae indicating papers published during the doctoral period.