Your Tasks

Antibody–Drug Conjugates (ADCs) are a rapidly advancing class of cancer therapeutics that combine the specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potency of cytotoxic agents. Upon internalization into tumor cells, ADCs release their cytotoxic payload, causing targeted cancer cell death via DNA or microtubule disruption. Beyond their direct cytotoxic effects, emerging evidence shows that ADCs can also trigger immune activation. They may induce immunogenic cell death, activate the cGAS-STING pathway, promote dendritic cell maturation, and facilitate T-cell priming and tumor infiltration. Additionally, through their Fc domains, ADCs can engage natural killer (NK) cells to mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), collectively reshaping the tumor microenvironment (TME).

Understanding these immune-modulating effects is essential to optimize ADC-based therapies. In our study, we plan to systematically investigate two clinically relevant HER2-targeting ADCs, each bearing distinct cytotoxic payloads (Trastuzumab Deruxtecan and Trastuzumab Emtansine). These models will allow us to explore how payload differences influence both tumor cell killing and immune modulation within the TME. In addition, we will evaluate these ADCs in “cold” versus “hot” tumor settings. This will help us elucidate why ADCs may be more effective in immune-infiltrated tumors and identify the key immune players responsible for this effect. Furthermore, we aim to identify novel combination partners that could synergize with ADCs to enhance tumor control. This includes testing combination strategies such as siRNA-mediated inhibition of DNA repair using lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), co-administered with ADCs to enhance tumor cell vulnerability and immune response.

Your Profile

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, bioengineering, or a related field

• Strong interest in tumor immunology and drug development

• Experience in cell culture, immunological methods, and/or preclinical animal models

• Highly organized, quality-conscious, and able to work independently

• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English

• Collaborative mindset and effective interpersonal skills

• Ability to meet deadlines with attention to detail and efficiency

   

Your Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate the immune-modulatory effects of HER2-targeting ADCs

• Analyze and interpret data related to anti-tumor immunity, cell death mechanisms, and DNA damage response

• Present research findings, progress updates, and strategic input to the team

• Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and technicians