Developing a soft tumor on Chip to decipher the interplay between metabolic & mechanical properties of the endometrial cancer microenvironment

Context

The PhD project is launched in the framework of a recently funded PEPR Med-OoC project (SOFTER¹), which brings together several research teams in Lyon to develop a new in vitro model for endometrial cancer: a Soft-Tumor-on-chip (Soft-ToC) with better predictive potential than conventional assays.

PhD objective

The project combines microfluidic engineering, biomaterials, and quantitative cell biology, with increasing focus on biophysical questions as the project progresses. The long-term objective is to improve preclinical cancer models and ultimately contribute to more effective and personalized therapies for endometrial cancer.

The first phase of the PhD project will be technology-driven, focusing on upgrading an existing Soft-milli-fluidic platform based on agarose².

The technological objective is to recreate a Tumor-on-Chip (ToC) model that reproduces the key components of the Tumor Microenvironment (TME) in endometrial cancer (EC):

(1) Using patient-derived endometrial tumor cells instead of endometrial cancer cell lines.

(2) Replacing the agarose hydrogel with a biomaterial that mimicks the extracellular matrix and supports cancer cell invasion.

(3) Incorporating endothelial cells in lateral channels to mimic vascularization.

The second phase will be to investigate key biophysical questions in the context of endometrial cancer:

Through spatio-temporal analysis of the reconstructed TME, the PhD project will address the following fundamental questions:

(1) Identifying new biophysical markers predictive of endometrial cancer aggressiveness.

(2) How do the mechanical and metabolic environments influence cancer cell invasion and resistance to treatment? Do distinct cellular subpopulations or phenotypic states emerge under specific mechanical or metabolic constraints?

(2) What is the interplay between Endothelial cells and Endometrial Cancer cells and how does it affect endometrial cancer cells aggressiveness?

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and creative candidate eager to tackle complex biological questions using quantitative and interdisciplinary approaches. Candidates from different backgrounds are hence welcome: Master’s degree (MSc) or engineering degree in biophysics, biomaterials, bioengineering, or cell biology. Curiosity and problem-solving skills are essential. Experience in cell culture, microscopy, image analysis, microfluidics or biomaterials will be considered an asset.

The PhD candidate will develop knowledge and skills in:

• Microfluidics and organ-on-chip systems
• Biomaterials and mechanical properties
• Advanced cell culture (co-culture systems with neo-vascularisation)
• Live imaging and quantitative image analysis
• Tumor microenvironment modeling

PhD environment

The candidate will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment at the interface of physics, biology, and engineering, with access to state-of-the-art microfabrication and imaging platforms.

The PhD will mainly take place at the Institute of Light and Matter in Lyon (ILM), with strong interactions with the 3D-Onco platform and µFab platform of the Research Center of Lyon (CRCL).

The PhD will also join the PEPR med-OoC network with opportunities for international mobilities.

PhD Supervisor: Charlotte Rivière, Co-supervisors : Hélène Delanoë-Ayari and Claire Dessalles.

General Information.

The funding is secured for a duration of 3 years, according to French PhD Standards.

Targeted starting date: autumn 2026.

PhD environment

The candidate will work in a highly interdisciplinary environment at the interface of physics, biology, and engineering, with access to state-of-the-art microfabrication and imaging platforms.

The PhD will mainly take place at the Institute of Light and Matter in Lyon (ILM), with strong interactions with the 3D-Onco platform and µFab platform of the Research Center of Lyon (CRCL).

The PhD will also join the PEPR med-OoC network with opportunities for international mobilities

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and creative candidate eager to tackle complex biological questions using quantitative and interdisciplinary approaches. Candidates from different backgrounds are hence welcome: Master’s degree (MSc) or engineering degree in biophysics, biomaterials, bioengineering, or cell biology. Curiosity and problem-solving skills are essential. Experience in cell culture, microscopy, image analysis, microfluidics or biomaterials will be considered an asset.