Drug delivery is a major challenge in cancer chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Increase of dose is not an option as most drugs are toxic to healthy tissues and administration is accompanied by dose limiting side-effects. We and others demonstrated that intratumoral concentrations can be increased when drugs are formulated in nano-sized carriers, while toxicity to vital organs is diminished. However, these carriers tend to release their content relatively slow or incomplete, which impairs efficacy.

We use lipid-based nano-carriers, which can be triggered by a small temperature increase to release their content and call them smart drug delivery devices (SDDS). Animal studies show that indeed heating of a tumor after administration of SDDS results in high local drug delivery and optimal tumor response.

A recent study in patients made clear that insight in triggered release, properties of the SDDS and incorporated drug, as well as control over the heating process is crucial to make this therapy successful. We therefore developed a mouse hyperthermia (HT) unit, which is equivalent to the clinical hybrid MRI-HT unit as used for patient treatments by the department of Radiotherapy. Using the mouse HT unit the PhD student will investigate real-time how the various parameters that affect drug delivery by SDDS using MRI and intravital microscopy in order to improve treatment of liver cancer.

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with a MSc Degree in Biology, Biomedicine, Medicine or Biotechnology. Experience in or affinity with technical applications in the biomedical discipline is highly appreciated. Excellent writing skills in English is recommended.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct is a condition for the appointment.

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.279,- in the 1st year and increases to € 2.919,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

A healthy population and excellence in healthcare through research and education. This is what Erasmus MC stands for. Conducting groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and leading the way. In research, education, and healthcare. We are practical people with a high level of expertise, working hard to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow.

The Erasmus MC is an internationally recognized center for high-quality, compassionate care, highly rated transfer of knowledge and high-quality knowledge development in the fields of illness and health. Your project is part of an intensive and long-standing collaboration between the departments of Surgery and Radiotherapy, as well as other national and international partners. Next to a comprehensive training program, and participation in the Molecular Medicine Research School, presentation of your work at international meetings is part of the program.