Most cancer patients die from malignant metastases, or because they have become insensitive to chemotherapy. In this multidisciplinary project, which will be carried out in collaboration with ErasmusMC and TuDelft, we aim to repurpose existing drugs to selectively change the behavior of aggressive cancer cells to non-invasive and therapy-sensitive cancer cells or change them into benign fat cells. This will be accomplished by using a library of over 5685 chemical compounds/drugs. The initial results of the screenings look promising. You will use cell biology, biochemistry and in vivo cancer models. In collaboration with colleagues, you will also test the effect of selected compounds/drugs on circulating tumor cells from breast and lung cancer patients.

In short

·         You will be part of our research group focused on studying signal transduction processes in human cells

·         You will study the important role of TGF-beta in the epithelial to mesenchymal transition of cancer cells and investigate how we can use existing drugs to counteract the malignant behavior of mesenchymal cancer cells

·         You have a PhD degree in cell biology/biochemistry or simila

We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated and result driven postdoc. You have a PhD in cell biology/biochemistry or in a similar field. In addition, you have experience with molecular cell biology and studying signal transduction. It is an advantage if you have knowledge of zebrafish or mouse xenograft cancer models. You are creative and professional, and have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Fixed-term contract: more information.

You will be employed on the basis of 36 hours per week. Initially, we will offer you an employment contract for two years, with a possible extension to five years, the entire duration of the project. Your salary is based on your education and experience and is a maximum of  € 4,615  gross per month for a full time position (scale 10 in the Collective Labour Agreement for University Hospitals).

LUMC

At the Leiden University Medical Center, we continuously work on improving patient care. We invest in groundbreaking, international research and work with the latest equipment. Together with our team of doctors, medical specialists, teachers, academic researchers and supporting staff, we aim for the best quality in health care, education and international research. And we need you to realize our goals!