PhD student: unraveling the radiation biology of radioactive anticancer agents

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to work on a project focusing on the radiation biology of targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT). This multidisciplinary project brings together expertise from the fields of nuclear medicine, molecular biology and cellular (radiation) biology.

TRT is a promising novel modality to treat patients with metastasized cancer. TRTs function via systemic administration of radiolabeled molecules designed to target tumor cells. However, the biological radiation effects of TRTs are poorly understood, and rational design of new modalities based on underlying cellular mechanisms is therefore not possible, resulting in suboptimal treatment strategies. In this preclinical research project, you will perform cellular experiments to identify and quantify specific radiobiological mechanisms of TRT-radiation effects.

In this project, you will be trained in using various laboratory techniques including cell culture, (fluorescent) microscopy, and different molecular biological techniques. Focus of this project will be on 2D cellular model systems and within the consortium, you will collaborate with colleagues from Radboud UMC who will work on 3D and in vivo radiobiology.

The Erasmus MC stands for a healthy population and excellence in healthcare. By conducting groundbreaking work, we aim to push boundaries through leading the way in research, education and healthcare. We have a high level of expertise, and work hard to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow. We have access to the latest equipment and techniques in a state-of-the-art environment.

The candidate will be positioned with a dual appointment at the Department of Molecular Genetics and the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine in the research team of Dr. Julie Nonnekens. The group uses a multidisciplinary approach to advance understanding of the underlying cellular mechanisms of TRTs with the aim to improve current treatment regimens or invent new ones. Research in the group ranges from preclinical, to computational and clinical studies. Check for more information about the research activities of the lab.

The Department of Molecular Genetics has a long history and strong world-wide reputation in understanding mechanisms of disease formation from the molecular level to physiological processes in the body in the context of cancer, aging and aging-related diseases. Multidisciplinary research teams perform basic and applied research ranging from the single molecule level up to complete organisms and patient derived materials employing state-of-the-art technologies, including genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, bioimaging and transgenesis. The department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine of the Erasmus MC is dedicated to high quality patient care, education, and research. Concerning research, the department is known for its forefront research and its state-of-the-art facilities. TRT for neuroendocrine tumors was developed in the department and the preclinical research group has successfully developed and tested various other new radiopharmaceuticals or combinatory treatments from bench to bedside.

As a PhD candidate, you will be offered excellent training and supervision through a dedicated teaching program of our Graduate school.

The project is part of the NWO funded consortium UNRANU (UNderstanding the RAdiobiology of therapeutic medical radioNUclides).