Postdoc Bioinformatics at Neuro-Oncology Research Group

In glioblastoma treatment, the most frequent and most lethal malignant primary brain tumor, fully informed decisions are hindered by a phenomenon known as pseudoprogression. During and after treatment, new MRI findings can either signal progression and poor prognosis, or pseudoprogression and more favorable prognosis. Based on imaging alone, it is often difficult to distinguish true progression from pseudoprogression, possibly delaying treatment decisions and impacting survival and quality of life. Liquid biopsies may offer a solution. In the PREDICT study, we aim to further develop our blood platelet RNA-based platform into a highly accurate test that is ready for a clinical intervention study. Additionally, similar research is being conducted on pseudoprogression and radionecrosis in brain metastasis and over 2000 RNA samples have already been collected from various other tumor types.

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be involved the preprocessing and downstream analysis of RNA-seq data, measured in ~300 patients at multiple time points. Your tasks include:

• Data preprocessing, RNA-seq data mapping and quality control, differential expression and machine learning development, integration and validation;
• Implementation of bioinformatic normalization- and correction methods;
• Analysis of previously generated data sets (RNA-seq data of >2000 samples readily available);
• Collaborating with, and supervising the PhD student currently working on the project;
• Publishing your findings in high-impact journals;
• Participating in the application of follow-up grants.

We are looking for an enthusiastic PhD graduate in bioinformatics who is analytically strong and is experienced with RNA-seq analysis. Specifically you have:

• A completed PhD in bioinformatics, preferably in the field of RNA-seq;
• Experience in statistics and data science;
• Advanced programming skills, preferably R and linux/bash;
• Interest in noninvasive tests for cancer therapy monitoring;
• Good communication skills and eager to collaborate;
• Good level of English, both in speaking and writing.

You will be working in the Neuro-Oncology Research Group (NRG), led by prof. David Noske, neurosurgeon. The group has recently moved to the new Research & Diagnostics Center and contains multiple postdocs and PhD students investigating gliomas. The NRG is embedded in Cancer Center Amsterdam and Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam. The group has multiple external collaborations, such as Antoni van Leeuwenhoek / Netherlands Cancer Institute, as well as international collaborations, such as England for the PREDICT study.

Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non-profit scientific research. In doing so, we provide researchers with everything they need to excel. Our principal investigators (PIs) and project leaders offer support in the field of project management, finance and human resources. In medical scientific research projects, legal support is also provided.

Watch the video to find out more.