Project information

The Peeper lab uses functional oncogenomic and other advanced technology to combat immunotherapy resistance. Immunotherapies, like T cell therapies, have revolutionized cancer treatment, significantly improving clinical outcomes. They exploit the antitumor activity of cytotoxic T cells to improve cancer elimination, and include tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) and T cell receptor (TCR) therapies. However, both also still have critical limitations, particularly to easily and quickly identify and enrich for tumor-specific, active T cells and the need to use complex, imperfect and long protocols to obtain the final therapeutic product.

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with only limited immunotherapy benefit. In close collaborations with lung oncologists in our hospital, we aim to screen for lung cancer-reactive T cells. Recently, we discovered a new biomarker that can be used to identify antitumor T cells. In this project, we aim to characterize this interesting population of T cells using multiomics and animal models, and translate our findings to the clinic.

We are seeking a highly ambitious postdoc with a strong background in immunology, experience with mouse studies, and an interest in fundamental and translational cancer research. Your responsibilities will include writing of manuscripts and grant applications. Proficiency in English and good communicative skills are important requirements, as is a team player mentality.  

Fixed-term contract: a minimum period of 2 years.

The vacancy is available immediately. You will be employed for a minimum period of 2 years. The gross salary per month is € 3.270 to € 4.611 according to salary scale FWG 55, depending on your experience. The terms of employment will be in accordance with FWG 55 of the CAO Ziekenhuizen (Collective Labour Agreement for Hospitals). In addition, you will receive a fixed end-of-year bonus in December (8,33%) and in May you will receive 8,33% holiday pay. An additional 5% will be added on December 1st 2023, and another 5% on June 1st 2024.

The Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) Located in Amsterdam, NKI is an internationally renowned institute dedicated to fundamental, translational and clinical cancer research, and the only comprehensive cancer center in The Netherlands. It is a dynamic institute accommodating over 50 research groups and many advanced core facilities, including flow cytometry, proteomics, genomics, biobank and a mouse cancer center.

Today's research for tomorrow's cure

The Netherlands Cancer Institute is among the world’s best comprehensive cancer centers, combining innovative fundamental, translational, and clinical research with dedicated patient care. Our research institute gratefully acknowledges funding from the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, the Dutch Cancer Society, and individual donors.