Junior Researcher - translational research program

Who we are

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University , established in 1996, is an highly ranked academic institution, well known for its exceptional integration of teaching and research.

The University is now an integral part of the Gruppo Ospedaliero San Donato , the largest private health group in Italy and the first in Europe for intensive care, medical training, and research.

The University's mission revolves around the fundamental question "Quid est homo?," seeking to unravel the complexities of human existence, recognizing that humanity is distinct biologically, psychologically, and spiritually.

This mission aligns perfectly with the collaborative efforts between the University and San Raffaele Research Hospital, fostering the implementation and development of new teaching models and learning support services, opening up endless engaging working opportunities in an environment suitable for professional and personal growth.

Who are we looking for?

Vita-Salute San Raffaele University is seeking a Junior Researcher (Ricercatore Junior) to join a translational research program dedicated to gastrointestinal cancers, with a primary focus on the early detection of pancreatic cancer in individuals at increased risk of developing the disease. The researcher will be integrated into a multidisciplinary team working on biomarker discovery and validation using liquid biopsy approaches, including circulating cell-free and exosome-associated microRNAs. The project aims to develop minimally invasive tools for risk stratification and early diagnosis in high-risk populations, ultimately enabling earlier therapeutic intervention and improving survival outcomes in pancreatic cancer. The Junior Scientist will work within a program funded by the Start-Up grant program by AIRC (Associazione Italiana Ricerca sul Cancro, coordinated by Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele (UniSR). The PI is Alessandro Mannucci. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the interface of molecular oncology, gastroenterology, and precision medicine, within nationally and internationally funded projects

Main Activities

The Junior Researcher will support both laboratory and clinical-translational activities related to biomarker development for gastrointestinal oncology. The candidate will:

• Participate in research studies investigating molecular biomarkers for early cancer detection, particularly pancreatic cancer.
• Handle and process biological specimens (plasma/serum), including preparation for circulating RNA and exosome analyses.
• Perform molecular biology assays such as RNA extraction, quantitative analyses, and microRNA profiling.
• Contribute to optimization and standardization of liquid biopsy workflows.
• Support integration of molecular findings with clinical and epidemiological datasets from high-risk surveillance cohorts.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and assist with data management and quality assurance.
• Collaborate with clinicians, statisticians, and bioinformaticians in interdisciplinary research activities.
• Assist in preparing scientific reports, abstracts, and manuscripts for dissemination of results

Requirements

Education

• Master’s Degree in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Medicine, or a related discipline.

Professional Experience

• Prior experience in translational, oncologic, or molecular research laboratories is preferred.
• Exposure to projects involving biomarkers, liquid biopsy, or clinical sample handling is advantageous.

Technical Skills

• Basic knowledge of molecular biology techniques (RNA extraction, PCR-based assays, or sequencing workflows).
• Familiarity with biospecimen processing and laboratory quality standards.
• Interest in translational applications of molecular diagnostics in oncology.

Transversal Skills

• Strong motivation to work in clinically oriented cancer research.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Organizational skills, precision, and capacity to manage research activities autonomously.
• Analytical mindset and willingness to learn new technologies.

Languages

• Good proficiency in English (spoken and written).
• Italian required for interaction within the clinical and institutional environment.

Details

• Type of Contract: Co.co.co (collaborazione coordinata e continuativa), 12 months (renewable).
• Compensation: Commensurate with experience and institutional framework.
• Location: Ospedale San Raffaele, Via Olgettina 60, Milan, Italy.

Interested candidates can submit their application with authorization in accordance with GDPR (EU Regulation 679/2016).

The search is open to people of all genders (Legislative Decree 198/2006).