This work focuses on the development of MRI techniques to establish the so-called vascular signature of primary brain tumours. Primary brain tumour, most commonly glioma, is a devastating disease which in adults is generally fatal. The optimal timing of treatment, including surgery, is in part determined by the expected tumour biological behaviour. An important influencer of tumour growth is its vascularisation. While typically assessed with an invasive test taking a tissue sample, vascularisation characteristics can be observed with MRI. However, with the currently available technology this can only be achieved with unacceptably long scan times. In this project, we aim to enhance MRI to gather a large set of quantitative vascularisation parameters within an acceptable scan time from patients with a brain tumour in a clinical setting. The ultimate aim is to improve diagnosis and eventually also the treatment outcome. As a PhD student on this project, you will develop new advanced MRI methods to characterise the vascularisation of brain tumours. The project will use clinical 3T MRI scanners at Erasmus MC and a 7 Tesla MRI scanner in Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), as part of the collaboration with the Gorter-Centre (Prof. Van Osch).

You should be an independent and highly motivated researcher with an MSc or MEng degree in a technical domain (e.g. Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Informatics, Clinical/ Biomedical Technology). Affinity for or experience with MR brain imaging and working knowledge of image data acquisition and processing, and/or programming is highly valued. You should be able to communicate and work with clinicians as well as researchers from various fields (Neurology, Biology, Medical Informatics). Excellent proficiency in English is required.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct, a valid proof of identity, diploma's and/ or relevant registration such as BIG/ RGS are conditions for the appointment.

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.422,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.103. in the 4th year (scale OIO). The appointment will be full-time (36 hours a week). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centres (CAO UMC). The position is available from 1 November 2019.

Erasmus MC

Erasmus MC stands for a healthy population and excellence in healthcare. By conducting groundbreaking work, we aim to push boundaries through leading the way in research, education and healthcare. We have access to the latest equipment and techniques in a state-of-the-art environment.

The research will be conducted in the Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine of Erasmus MC in close collaboration with the Gorter Centre of the Leiden University Medical Centre (in the city of Leiden), where also a PhD student has been appointed for this project. Our Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine is one of the largest imaging departments in Europe with 10 clinical MRI scanners at several field strengths and 1 PET-MRI scanner. The project is locally embedded in the Brain Tumour Centre at Erasmus MC. The department has an international character with a good balance between internationally recognised, high-end research and an excellent social working environment. The supervision for this project will be provided by: Assoc. Prof. Juan A. Hernandez Tamames (senior MRI physicist at Erasmus MC with extensive experience in the development and application of MRI in clinical research), Assist. Prof. Dirk Poot (MR Physicist at Erasmus MC with extensive expertise in quantitative MRI), and Prof. Marion Smits (professor of Applied Physiological Neuroimaging and Neuroradiologist, Erasmus MC). Prof. Matthias van Osch (MRI Physicist in LUMC) will also supervise this project.