PhD tumor immunology of peritoneal metastasis

Colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases has a particularly poor prognosis. This KWF‑funded project investigates how glycan structures affect immune responses in peritoneal metastasis and whether glycan inhibition can restore anti‑tumor immunity. The treatment of colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases remains a major challenge in oncology, and immunotherapy often provides inadequate responses in this patient group. Recent research indicates that abnormal tumour glycans suppress anti‑tumor immunity;

the project will explore how tumour‑associated glycans, especially sialic acids, influence immune responses and whether sialic‑acid inhibition can reactivate the immune system. The role involves working with patient material, in‑vivo models, flow cytometry, tumour slice cultures, and presenting findings at national and international conferences.

• Investigate how tumour‑associated glycan structures, particularly sialic acids, influence and suppress immune responses against peritoneal metastases.
• Test in patient material and in‑vivo models whether sialic‑acid inhibition reactivates the immune system.
• Analyze and interpret research data using flow cytometry, tumour slice cultures, and other immunological and cell‑biological techniques.
• Present research findings at (inter) national conferences and symposia.
• Supervise a bachelor or master student during a research internship within the project.
• Contribute to immunology and biochemistry education within the department, e.g., by teaching work groups or practicals.

• Master’s degree in biomedical sciences or equivalent.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience with flow cytometry and/or human tissue slice cultures.
• Willingness to work with animal models (an Article 9 certificate and prior experience are an advantage).
• Flexible, proactive team player, but able to work independently.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Desire for a flying start to a career in scientific research.
• Interest in translational research and collaboration with motivated researchers from the Netherlands and abroad.

• Employment by Amsterdam UMC Research BV on a 12‑month contract, with the intention to extend for a total of 4 years; the Guideline PhD contract applies to this vacancy.
• Salary scale OIO: €3.108 to €3.939 gross per month for full‑time employment (depending on education and experience) and a year‑end bonus of 8.3%; medical doctors are not considered for this position.
• Holiday hours: 190.4 per year for full‑time, with possibility to save additional hours.
• Pension accrual with BeFrank.
• For routes over 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.
• Walking or cycling reimbursements of €0.18 per km.

Watch a video with more information about joining Amsterdam UMC Research BV.

The department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology is located in the vibrant O2 Lab Building at the VU/Amsterdam UMC campus and houses excellent cytometry and imaging core facilities.

The research group led by dr. Sandra van Vliet focuses on the role of tumour‑associated glycan structures. In this project you will collaborate with dr. K. Lenos, dr. J. Grootjans, and prof. dr. J. Tuynman.

Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non‑profit scientific research, providing researchers with project management, finance, human resources, and legal support.

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

If you have any questions about this position, please feel free to contact dr. Sandra van Vliet
, associate professor, s.vanvliet
.

For more information about the application procedure, please contact Rhiannon Sandfort
, recruitment advisor, at r.e.sandfort
.

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 will not be considered.