As a PhD candidate, you will independently conduct scientific research within this project under the supervision of an experienced research team. This PhD position is part of the Oncode Accelerator, a large government-subsidized collaborative project that aims to accelerate drug development in oncology. Organoid technology plays an important role in this project.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major contributor to cancer-related mortality worldwide. Mortality is almost always caused by the formation of distant metases, most commonly in the liver, the lungs and the peritoneal cavity. Little is known about how the different microenvironments in these distant organ systems influences metastasis behavior and response to therapy. In this project we will develop advanced organoid-based co-culture systems that mimic tumor growth in the liver, the lung and the peritoneal microenviroments. These models will be applied to study how organ context influencens tumor behavior and response to therapy. In addition, organ-specific contexts may create specific therapeutic vulnerabilities. The ultimate goal is to develop effective anti-metastatic therapies, by taking organ context into account.

This project provides access to a wide array of in vitro laboratory techniques, such as advanced primary cell (co-)culture models, RNA sequencing, FACS sorting, Immunofluorescence staining, spatial transcriptomics, and various microscopy techniques.

We offer a challenging PhD trajectory with excellent supervision and ample opportunities to develop your own ideas.

• You have completed a Master’s degree in Medicine, Technical Medicine, or Biomedical Sciences.
• You have demonstrable affinity with conducting fundamental research.
• You are eager to learn, able to quickly acquire knowledge, enjoy analyzing data, and can generate new ideas.
• Experience with cancer and (microfluidic)organ-on-chip research is an advantage.
• You excel in planning and coordination, maintaining the work process with attention to quality and traceability.
• You are a team player who thrives in a dynamic environment, possess excellent communication skills, and are proficient in English, written and spoken.

The Lab Translational Oncology (LTO) is part of the dynamic Imaging & Oncology division. At LTO we are dedicated to improve patient care through fundamental and translational research. At the division of Imaging and Oncology highly complex care is offered to cancer patients by integrating outpatient clinics, day treatments, and inpatient wards. Our multidisciplinary team always strives to optimize treatment and quality of life for each individual cancer patient. The research at LTO and its connection to the clinic forms an essential part of this strategy.