We are the Radiotherapy Department of the University of Maastricht (GROW School), the Netherlands. Our aim is to improve radiotherapy for cancer by clinical and preclinical research. In our Physics team we specialize in the combination of imaging, precision irradiation and radiation dose calculations. For preclinical research (animal research) we collaborate closely with the Radiobiology team. We also work with an onsite Radiotherapy clinic (the world-famous MAASTRO) which also has a proton radiotherapy department with a brand new cyclotron.

We will soon start a new project, IRRADION, co-funded by the EU, where we will develop a novel radiation and imaging research platform for preclinical precision imaging and radiation studies with small animals. The platform will use small robots to perform CT imaging and proton tomography. The system will be able to irradiate with precise photon beams and can be docked to a clinical proton beam for irradiation with protons. We will use state of the art particle detectors from CERN to perform photon and proton imaging. The final result will be a unique prototype system that will revolutionize radiation research in oncology and other fields. The candidate will be part of a team that will design and build this platform. The candidate’s emphasis is on the hardware components. The project is a collaboration between the University of Maastricht, local company SmART Scientific Solutions (http://www.smartscientificsolutions.com/) and Czech company Radalytica (http://www.radalytica.com/). The former company specializes in preclinical software development. The latter company does most of the robotics and imaging development. The position we are offering will focus on development of the preclinical hardware platform for precision irradiation with protons, and on novel proton imaging. There will be close collaboration with the partnering companies.   

We are looking for a dynamic co-worker, preferably a recent graduate with a strong MSc degree in physics or physics engineering with an interest in biomedical research. Candidates with a relevant PhD will also be considered. Ideally, you have knowledge of hardware system development and advanced computer programming skills. You should have an excellent study record with a GPA of at least 3.5, and be willing to work in a highly motivated team of physicists and radiobiologists. You should be willing to relocate to the region around Maastricht (which is also close to Germany and Belgium). Knowledge of the Dutch language is not a requirement. You should be fluent in English (written and spoken).

Fixed-term contract: 1 jaar.

We offer a 12 month contract in this exciting project, with a potential extension of several years afterwards. The candidate should start the project not much later than 1 September 2019. Gross salary is between 2261€ and 3052€ gross per month, depending on experience. The package includes 6 weeks vacation. If you are a foreigner, you may qualify for the 30% tax ruling if you live 150km away from the Dutch border.

The terms of employment of Maastricht University are set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO). Furthermore, local UM provisions also apply. For more information look at the website www.maastrichtuniversity.nl > support > um employees

Maastricht University

Maastricht University is renowned for its unique, innovative, problem-based learning system, which is characterized by a small-scale and student-oriented approach. Research at UM is characterized by a multidisciplinary and thematic approach, and is concentrated in research institutes and schools. Maastricht University has around 18,000 students and 4,300 employees. Reflecting the university's strong international profile, a fair amount of both students and staff are from abroad. The university hosts 6 faculties: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Faculty of Law, School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience.

https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/research/school-oncology-and-developmental-biology

GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology

GROW focuses on research and teaching of (epi)genetic, cellular and (micro)environmental factors and mechanisms underlying normal (embryonic and fetal) and abnormal (cancer) development, with emphasis on translational research aiming at innovative approaches for individualizing prevention, patient diagnostics and treatment.