PhD 'Modulating tumor microenvironment to enhance radiosensitivity

Job description

The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an important role in determining how tumors respond to radiotherapy. Features such as stromal composition, hypoxia, and cellular senescence can contribute to radioresistance and may therefore represent potential therapeutic targets.

In this PhD project, you will investigate how modulation of the TME can enhance the response to radiotherapy. The project will combine patient-derived models and in vivo tumor models to study how different TME characteristics contribute to treatment response and to explore potential strategies to target these mechanisms. A range of complementary preclinical approaches is used, including hypoxia modulation, targeting of senescent cells or cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), (image-guided) radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibition.

Treatment response and underlying mechanisms will be assessed through readouts such as DNA damage and repair, tumor growth and characterization of the TME. The precise experimental approaches will be guided by the scientific findings and direction of the project.

At the Radiotherapy & Onco Immunology (ROI) lab of the department of Radiation oncology, ~ 20 researchers aim at better understanding how tumor cells interact with the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and how these interactions influence response to cancer treatment, with a particular focus on radiotherapy.

Research is centred around the complex interplay between tumor cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immune cells and other components of the TME. We aim to identify and therapeutically target TME features that contribute to treatment resistance, and to develop strategies that enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy. Our work combines imaging, molecular, cellular and immunological approaches, ranging from mechanistic studies to preclinical in vivo models.

The ROI lab is located within the department of Radiation Oncology, allowing for frequent interaction between basic and translational research and clinical practice. This provides an excellent environment for translating mechanistic insights into novel therapeutic strategies.

Requirements

• An MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Cancer Biology, or a related field, or an equivalent degree,
• A strong interest in preclinical cancer research,
• Motivated to investigate biological mechanisms underlying treatment response,
• Curious, enthusiastic about experimental science, and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Experience with molecular and cellular biology, tumor biology, radio biology or immunology is an advantage. Experience with preclinical animal models is welcome, and candidates holding an Article 9 certificate for working with experimental animals are especially encouraged to apply.

• This position requires a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).