In glioblastoma treatment, the most frequent and most lethal malignant primary brain tumor, fully informed decisions are hindered by a phenomenon known as pseudoprogression. During and after treatment, new MRI findings can either signal progression and poor prognosis, or pseudoprogression and more favorable prognosis. Based on imaging alone, it is often difficult to distinguish true progression from pseudoprogression, possibly delaying treatment decisions and impacting survival and quality of life. Liquid biopsies may offer a solution. In the PREDICT study, we aim to further develop our blood platelet RNA-based platform into a highly accurate test that is ready for a clinical intervention study. Additionally, similar research is being conducted on pseudoprogression and radionecrosis in brain metastasis and over 2000 RNA samples have already been collected from various other tumor types.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be involved the preprocessing and downstream analysis of RNA-seq data, measured in ~300 patients at multiple time points. Your tasks include:

• Data preprocessing, RNA-seq data mapping and quality control, differential expression and machine learning development, integration and validation;
• Implementation of bioinformatic normalization- and correction methods;
• Analysis of previously generated data sets (RNA-seq data of >2000 samples readily available);
• Collaborating with, and supervising the PhD student currently working on the project;
• Publishing your findings in high-impact journals;
• Participating in the application of follow-up grants.

We are looking for an enthusiastic PhD graduate in bioinformatics who is analytically strong and is experienced with RNA-seq analysis. Specifically you have:

• A completed PhD in bioinformatics, preferably in the field of RNA-seq;
• Experience in statistics and data science;
• Advanced programming skills, preferably R and linux/bash;
• Interest in noninvasive tests for cancer therapy monitoring;
• Good communication skills and eager to collaborate;
• Good level of English, both in speaking and writing.

• A flying start to your career in scientific research;
• Plenty of room for your drive to shape tomorrow's healthcare;
• A contract for 28 to 36 hours for 12 months (extension possible for a maximum of 2,5 years);
• Salary scale 10: € 3.493 to € 5.504 gross per month based on full-time employment (depending on education and experience);
• In addition to a good basic salary, we offer 8.3% end-of-year bonus. Calculate your net salary here;
• Holiday hours: 186,4 per year for fulltime and a possibility to save additional hours.
• Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, comprehensible and fairly priced pension.
• For >7 km each way, 100% reimbursement for public transport travel costs and, for private transport, €0.18 per km up to a maximum of 40 km each way.
• Do you prefer walking or cycling? Take advantage of our good bike scheme. Moreover, you will receive a reimbursement of €0.18 per km.

Amsterdam UMC

You will be working in the Neuro-Oncology Research Group (NRG), led by prof. David Noske, neurosurgeon. The group has recently moved to the new Research & Diagnostics Center and contains multiple postdocs and PhD students investigating gliomas. The NRG is embedded in Cancer Center Amsterdam and Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam. The group has multiple external collaborations, such as Antoni van Leeuwenhoek / Netherlands Cancer Institute, as well as international collaborations, such as England for the PREDICT study.

Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non-profit scientific research. In doing so, we provide researchers with everything they need to excel. Our principal investigators (PIs) and project leaders offer support in the field of project management, finance and human resources. In medical scientific research projects, legal support is also provided.

Watch the video to find out more.

During the publication period, applications will be handled continuously. If the vacancy is filled, it will be closed prematurely.

If you have any questions about this position, please feel free to contact David Noske, via d.noske@amsterdamumc.nl.

For more information about the application procedure, please contact Kim Hooijmans, Recruitment advisor, via k.i.m.hooijmans@amsterdamumc.nl.

A reference check, screening and hiring test may be part of the procedure. Read here whether that applies to you. If you join us, we ask you for a VOG (Certificate of Good Conduct).

Internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates in case of equal suitability.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.