Dissecting the cell intrinsic and external signals regulating re-epithelisation

Metastasis is a complex multistep process where cancer cells escape from the primary tumour, disseminate thoughout the body, and seed secondary growths at distant sites. How do cells decide when to stop moving and start growing? We investigate these questions using Drosophila melanogaster models where we can study the normal behaviour of moving cells during development, and how this goes wrong in exciting cancer models we recently generated.

This project will focus on dissecting the external and internal factors driving a cell to stop moving become epithelial – a key step on the formation of secondary metastases. It will involve studying how this process is orchestrated during morphogenesis of the embryonic midgut, and later extending this to our cancer models. You will use either existing single-cell transcriptome atlases within in the lab, or carry out new single cell RNA-seq experiments to identify candidate pathways. You will then investigate for a functional role using deep-tissue live and fixed imaging on our lab’s own dedicated dual-line multiphoton confocal combined with cell and genetic approaches routinely performed in the lab, such as FISH and CRISPR. There will also be the chance to build on techniques we have recently started using in our system, such as expansion microscopy and laser ablation combined with live imaging. This is a unique opportunity for you to carry out cutting-edge microscopy, and develop your skills in an exciting multidisciplinary environment.