The current project in which the PhD student will be involved will built upon previous knowledge generated in the research group to further improve and validate prediction models for the early detection and risk stratification of renal cell carcinoma. Previously, we focused on DNA methylation biomarkers for these prediction models, but in the current project we would like to extend towards other types of biomarkers (e.g. proteins, RNA etc.) to further improve our models. Activities within this project include the testing and validation of different biomarkers from different sources (tissue, urine and/or blood) using several techniques (such as MSP, qMSP, sequencing etc.). In addition, the PhD student will be involved in our prospective urine biobank for which patient inclusion is currently ongoing at Maastricht UMC+, and in the exploration of possibilities to further extend this biobank to increase patient inclusion. Moreover, in collaboration with the department of Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Technology Assessment (KEMTA) an early-HTA is also planned in the project.

We offer an unique project in a research group with ample experience in the research field of biomarkers in cancer. This research is an extension of a successful collaboration between different departments and research groups, such as the departments of Pathology, Epidemiology, KEMTA, Medical Oncology and Urology, within Maastricht UMC+ as well as outside. The successful candidate will be embedded within the department of Pathology, School for Oncology and Reproduction (Faculty of Health and Medicine, Maastricht University).

Selection criteria/About you
We are looking for motivated, enthusiastic candidates who are excited about (translational) research in cancer. Suitable candidates need to have a Master degree in a relevant field, such as Biomedical Sciences, Medical Biology or Epidemiology. You are pro-active, capable of working independently, but also a team player. Some experience in working with cancer prediction models, clinical studies and/or PCR techniques would be an advantage, just as an active registration in the Dutch BROK registry (or similar) or the willingness to obtain this registration. The postholder needs to have a very good command of English in listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Temporary employment for 4 years. The first year will be a probation period, after a positive assessment the position will be extended for another 3 years, which happens in the vast majority of cases.

Your salary will be € 2,541 gross per month in the first year up to € 3,247 gross per month in the fourth year according to the PhD-candidate salary scale. An 8% holiday and an 8.3% year-end allowance is also provided.
In addition to good primary employment conditions, UM also offers an attractive package of secondary employment conditions.

Each year an evaluation will take place.

The terms of employment of Maastricht University are set out in the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (CAO). Furthermore, local UM provisions also apply. For more information look at the website www.maastrichtuniversity.nl > About UM > Working at UM.

Maastricht University

Maastricht University is renowned for its unique, innovative, problem-based learning system, which is characterized by a small-scale and student-oriented approach. Research at UM is characterized by a multidisciplinary and thematic approach, and is concentrated in research institutes and schools. Maastricht University has around 22,000 students and about 5,000 employees. Reflecting the university's strong international profile, a fair amount of both students and staff are from abroad. The university hosts 6 faculties: Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Faculty of Law, School of Business and Economics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience. 
For more information, visit www.maastrichtuniversity.nl.