FAPESP Postdoctoral Fellowship in Intestinal Inflammation

Project Title: Pathophysiology of MAIT cells in Crohn’s Disease: integrating functional, spatial, and pre-clinical analyses to identify new therapeutic targets.

Project Summary: Mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells are abundant at mucosal sites and play key roles in microbial defense and tissue homeostasis. In Crohn’s Disease (CD), these cells are redistributed and display heightened activation and inflammatory cytokine production, but their precise contribution to disease pathogenesis remains unclear. This project will use a combination of human samples, spatial transcriptomics, co-culture assays with intestinal organoids, and murine models of colitis to define the functional, spatial, and regulatory roles of MAIT cells in intestinal inflammation, and to evaluate their potential as therapeutic targets.

Main Activities of the Postdoctoral Fellow

• Multicolor spectral flow cytometry phenotyping of blood- and tissue-derived MAIT cells.

• Spatial transcriptomic analysis of intestinal biopsies (Visium HD).

• Development and optimization of co-culture systems involving human MAIT cells, macrophages, and 3D intestinal organoids.

• Functional manipulation of MAIT cells in murine colitis models

• Data integration and preparation of manuscripts and conference presentations.

Required Profile

• PhD in Immunology, Cell Biology, Pharmacology, Biotechnology, or related fields (completed within the last 7 years).

• Proven experience in flow cytometry, primary immune cell isolation, and murine models.

• Strong scientific writing skills and publication record.

• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative environment.

• Familiarity with intestinal inflammation or T cell biology.

Highly desirable (not mandatory):

• Experience with spatial transcriptomics, single-cell analysis, or organoid culture.

Fellowship Conditions (FAPESP PD)

• Monthly stipend according to FAPESP postdoctoral fellowship rates.

• Funding for research costs via RT (Reserva Técnica).

• The selected candidate may apply for BEPE to conduct research abroad during the fellowship.

Application Material: Send as a single PDF to: Prof. Raphael Peres (email: ) with subject line: Postdoc Application – MAIT/Crohn

Include: i) Cover letter describing your motivation and relevant experience; ii) Curriculum Vitae (Lattes + full publication list); iii) Contact information of two academic references.