Postdoc in Protein and Antibody Engineering in Cancer Research

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team focused on selectively inhibiting TGF-β receptor signaling in a cell-type-specific manner. In this way, we aim to inhibit the pro-tumorigenic effects of TGF-β while preserving its physiological roles in normal cells. This innovative research line is inspired by our work on parasites that secrete TGF-β mimics and antagonists which, in contrast to mammalian TGF-β, act in a cell-selective manner by binding to specific co-receptors. You will utilize advanced protein engineering to discover and optimize antibody-based therapeutics and apply protein structure prediction and molecular modeling techniques to guide antibody design and optimization. You will work closely with experts in molecular biology and cellular biochemistry, using state-of-the-art technologies and in vitro and animal models.

Your core tasks are:

·         Designing and purifying bispecific antibodies with properties aimed at cell-specific targeting.

·         Applying biophysical, biochemical, and cell biological methods to study protein-protein interactions and cellular behavior.

·         Using deep learning models, such as AlphaFold, to predict antibody-antigen and protein-protein interactions.

·         Collaborating closely with experts in structural biology and computer-aided models for antibody design.

·         Publishing research results and presenting at international meetings.

In addition, you will actively participate in group and departmental meetings and keep up to date with the latest developments in AI-driven antibody technology.

You are motivated, take responsibility for your work, and can work both independently and as part of a team. You communicate clearly, contribute proactively to scientific collaborations, and thrive in dynamic, multidisciplinary environments.

Further, you have:

·         A PhD in life sciences, chemical biology, pharmaceutical sciences and/or cell biology, with knowledge of signal transduction and bioinformatic analysis (experience with statistical programming in R and Python).

·         Skills in protein engineering to enhance protein binding affinity and function.

·         Experience using deep learning models (e.g., AlphaFold and RosettaFold) for predicting protein-protein interactions are considered an advantage.

·         Good command of English, both spoken and written.

As a postdoc, your salary will be between €3,598 and €5,669 gross per month (scale 10, CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.

At the Leiden University Medical Center, we continuously work on improving patient care. We invest in groundbreaking, international research and work with the latest equipment. Together with our team of doctors, medical specialists, teachers, academic researchers and supporting staff, we aim for the best quality in health care, education and international research. And we need you to realize our goals!