We are looking for a PhD student for the project”Prognostic DNA methylation markers in renal cell carcinoma”. Renal cell carcinoma is the 9th most frequent tumor type in men, and the 10th most frequent in women. Although 5 year survival rates for renal cell carcinoma are quite good for early stage tumors, around 80%, these numbers drop drastically for tumors in a more advanced stage, and even under 10% for renal cell carcinoma with distant metastases. In clinical practice, large differences are observed in the disease course, even for tumors with similar characteristics. Moreover, about 30% of the patients with an early-stage tumor, will experience a recurrence, thereby facing a poor prognosis. Based on current knowledge, we are not able to recognize these patients with a poor prognosis, beforehand. 

The aim of this study is to identify and validate DNA methylation biomarkers that can be used to identify patients with a poor prognosis prior to treatment, in order to adapt treatment and follow-up regimes to this knowledge. As non-invasive biomarkers are preferred, the focus will be at the development of non-invasive biomarkers, e.g. from urine. 

Activities within this project include the testing and validation of different DNA methylation biomarkers from different sources (tissue, urine and/or blood) using several techniques (a.o. MSP, q-MSP, DREAMING, sequencing etc.), developing and implementation of a prospective urinary biobank at Maastricht UMC+, and the development and validation of predictive models.  

We offer an unique project in a research group with ample experience in the research field of methylation biomarkers in cancer. This research is an extention of a succesful collaboration between different departments and research groups, such as the departments of Pathology, Epidemiology, Medical Oncology and Urology, within Maastricht UMC+ as well as outside. In addition, a commercial partner, specialized in implementing molecular tests in clinical practice, is involved. Within the research group, work will be done in close collaboration with several other PhD students and technicians. In addition, regular meetings will be planned to ensure the progress of the project. 

- You have a Master degree in a relevant field, such as Biomedical Sciences, Medical Biology, Epidemiology or Medicine.

- You are enthusiastic and motivated to perform research in this field, and are able to show that, e.g. with obtained competencies.

- You are experienced with performing research independently, either in the lab or epidemiological research.

- You are experienced with performing statistical analyses independently, or with performing clinical research.

- You have an active registration in the Dutch BROK registry, or similar, or are willing to obtain this registration.

- You have affinity with the research field of oncology and/or epidemiology

- You are independent, critica land pro-active.

- You have an excellent knowledge of English.

Fixed-term contract: 1 + 3 years.

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 > Support > UM employees

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 16,300 students and 4,300 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.

http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/

GROW - School for Oncology and Developmental Biology

GROW focuses on research and teaching of (epi)genetic, cellular and (micro)environmental factors and mechanisms underlying normal (embryonic and fetal) and abnormal (cancer) development, with emphasis on translational research aiming at innovative approaches for individualizing prevention, patient diagnostics and treatment.

http://www.grow-um.nl/