PhD Student Position Microbiome, Immunology and Cancer

The laboratory of Dr. Arielle Elkrief, MD, at the CHUM Microbiome Centre, is seeking a highly motivated Graduate PhD student with a strong background in immunology, microbiology, or a related field to join a growing international research program investigating how the gut microbiome shapes immune responses and outcomes to cancer immunotherapy.

Research Environment

The Elkrief laboratory focuses on translating microbiome discoveries into new therapeutic strategies for patients with cancer. Our research examines how the intestinal microbiome influences response, resistance, and toxicity to immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Current projects investigate microbiome-based interventions including fecal microbiota transplantation, live biotherapeutic products, prebiotics, microbial metabolites, and dietary interventions. A major emphasis of the laboratory is understanding the mechanisms through which these interventions alter antitumor immunity and using these findings to develop more precise microbiome-directed therapies.

Our highly translational research program integrates pre-clinical models with patient samples. Students work closely with clinicians, immunologists, microbiologists, computational biologists, and international collaborators, with direct access to patient biospecimens and clinically relevant research questions.

The laboratory provides a highly collaborative training environment with strong mentorship and opportunities to contribute to high-impact publications, scientific presentations, and multidisciplinary translational research.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates with:

MSc degree with a strong academic background in immunology, microbiology, cancer biology, molecular biology, or a related discipline
Prior research experience in immunology and/or microbiology with strong publication record
Basic experience in cell culture, microbiological techniques, and molecular biology
Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
Demonstrated scientific curiosity and ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary research team
Experience with laboratory techniques including: Flow cytometry, Murine models, including tumor model, Microbiome research or bacterial culture, bioinformatics and statistical analysis

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit:

Curriculum vitae
Cover letter describing academic background, previous research experience, and research interests
Academic transcripts
Contact information for two referees or two letters of reference

Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.