Immunotherapy is an attractive new option in the treatment of cancer. Yet response rates vary among patients, because of an immunosuppressive environment inflicted by the tumor. In this project we will investigate how tumor-exposed glycans affect anti-tumor immune responses and immunotherapeutic approaches in colorectal cancer.

This translational project incorporates fundamental research questions as well as translational applications in in vivo and in vitro models and analysis of patient material. You will use state-of-the-art techniques, such as genome-editing using CRIPSR/Cas9, high-dimensional cytometry, multiplex confocal imaging, mass spectrometry, combined with the immunological analysis of both murine and human tumors. The project is funded by a grant from the Dutch Cancer Society (KWF).

Your main tasks and responsibilities are:

• to study cellular innate and adaptive immune responses in the tumor microenvironment;
• to set-up collaborative interactions with clinicians;
• to unravel impact of tumor glycosylation on response to immunotherapy;
• to complete your research with a PhD thesis and degree.

We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic researcher. For this position its important that you have a creative and flexible attitute and you are avialible to work flexible hours when the circumstances in the project require. You will be part of a young, multidisciplinary team, with ample experience, and an excellent position within the expert field. Are you a teamplayer with excellent communication skills and do you also have the capacity to work indepenently?

In addition you meet the following expertise and experience:

• a master degree in Biomedical Sciences or equivalent, with a strong background in tumor cell biology or immunology;
• interest in pushing the boundaries of research through technology-driven applications;
• experience with animal experiments (article 9);
• excellent communications skills in English, both written and verbal.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

Salary Scale OIO: 2422 tot 3103 euro gross when employed full-time (depending on qualifications and experience).

We offer you the opportunity for development, deepening and broadening, additional training and a place to grow! Working at AUMC means working in an inspiring and professional environment where development is encouraged in every respect.

• The maximum gross monthly salary based on a 36-hour work week is € 3.103,- (scale OIO CAO UMC).
• The base salary does not include holiday pay (8%) and a year-end bonus (8.3%).
• We offer a contract for 4 years after a trial period of 12 months.

For an overview of all our other terms of employment, see our website.

Amsterdam UMC

This research will be performed within the group of dr. van Vliet at Amsterdam UMC in the Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology (location VUmc; O|2 Lab Building) Here you will work in a team with young and enthusiastic researchers, who have expertise in immunology, oncology, biochemistry and cell biology. Research within the department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology (VUmc) is performed in a stimulating environment and at an international high competitive level.