Within our institute we are looking for a PhD candidate who will work on the development of immunoPET. The aim of this research project is the refinement of our animal models to achieve more knowledge about the role and impact of the immune system on the longitudinal process of diseases in which it is known that the immune system plays an important role, like infectious diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.

ImmunoPET in a molecular imaging technique which combines two strong points, the superior sensitivity of the PET technique and the targeting specificity of monoclonal antibodies or antibody fragments. In a noninvasive and dynamic manner, the expression of specific markers, immune cells, inflammation processes and heterogeneity of a disease can be visualized. This will lead to more knowledge regarding the disease processes and personalized treatment opportunities. Furthermore, ImmunoPET can also play an essential role in antibody drug development by providing personalized information regarding the antibody targeting abilities and distribution profiles of a specific marker throughout the body.

The PhD candidate will be embedded in the Animal Science department and will work in close collaboration with the other departments like Virology, Parasitology and Neurobiology&aging. This position involves besides practical work and analysis of the data writing of at least four scientific publications as first author. The research project will be finalized with a defense of your thesis at the Utrecht University.

We are looking for a person with the following features:

• You have a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, (Medical)Biology, Life Sciences or a related field;
• You have finalized a radiation protection/safety training;
• When you have experience in working with animals models and an article 9 certificate is this a plus
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity, safety and cooperation;
• You pay attention to details without losing the overall overview;
• You have good verbal & written communication skills in English;
• You have a positive attitude towards the research conducted in the institute

What we have to offer: 

• An independent and versatile position in a challenging environment with a diversity of great colleagues.
• A salary in scale 10 in our FW18 system, with a yearly raise. 

The BPRC is a scientific research institute that conducts biomedical research on serious diseases, e.g. AIDS, malaria, hepatitis, SARS-CoV-2, tuberculosis and autoimmune diseases such as MS, as well as ageing-associated diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. We contribute to the development of medicines and vaccines, but also aim to refine animal models and to explore alternative techniques.

For more information regarding the BPRC, check out our website