We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to work on a project focusing on development and optimization of radioactive anticancer treatment (radiopharmaceutical therapy; RPT) for children with brain tumors. This multidisciplinary project brings together expertise from the fields of nuclear medicine, molecular biology, cell biology and pathology.

RPT is a form of internal radiation therapy, which is induced by systemic or local administration of radiolabeled molecules designed to specifically target tumor cells. RPT is an upcoming novel treatment strategy that has not yet been widely studied for use in patients with brain tumors, despite remarkable success (up to complete responses) in adult cancer patients suffering from neuro-endocrine abdominal tumors. Considering the lack of effective treatment options currently available for children with brain tumors, the goal of this project is to determine through preclinical research which whether RPT also has potential, and in that case, which type of RPT is most potent for the treatment of different types of pediatric brain tumors.

In this translational project, you will be trained in using various laboratory techniques including cell culture, (fluorescent) microscopy, autoradiography, histology and different molecular biological techniques. Additionally, animal work is included which you will perform in collaboration with experienced biotechnicians. At the end of the project, you will have contributed to an overview of possible RPTs for pediatric brain tumors that shall be further evaluated in clinical studies.

• You are a highly motivated and talented candidate that holds a MSc degree in biomedical science, molecular/cellular biology, oncology, or related field.
• Experience with standard molecular biology techniques, histology, microscopy, animal experimentation and/or radionuclide handling will be considered an advantage.
• You are a team-player who is able to combine independent thinking with a collaborative attitude as you will be working in a dynamic international research environment.
• You have strong written and oral English skills (EUR requirements minimum IELTS overall score of 7.0 [comparable to TOEFL PBT: 600; TOEFL CBT: 250; TOEFL IBT: 95]).

• You will receive a temporary position for 4 years.
• The gross monthly salary is € 2.631 ,- in the 1st year and increases to € 3.336,- in the 4th year (scale OIO).
• Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and a personal travel budget.
• Pension insurance with ABP. The employer covers approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as a physiotherapist and a company bicycle repairer. And there is also a sports club where you can work on your fitness after work.

The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

You will be positioned with a research appointment at the Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine at Erasmus MC in the research team of Dr. Sophie Veldhuijzen van Zanten (medical doctor and group leader guiding several PhDs in Erasmus MC and in the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology) and Dr. Julie Nonnekens (associate professor and group leader). The group of Dr. Veldhuijzen van Zanten focusses on the development and optimization of RPT for patients with tumors arising in the central nervous system, including brain tumors, both in adults and in children, in the clinical setting (with patients) as well as in the preclinical setting. Preclinical work will be performed in the group of Dr. Nonnekens who uses a multidisciplinary approach to advance understanding of the underlying cellular mechanisms of RPTs with the aim to improve current treatment regimens or invent new ones. Research in the group ranges from cells to animals, and from computational models to clinical studies. More information about the research activities of the lab can be found here.

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. RPT 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.