Colorectal cancer (CRC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are common causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Both have high mortality rates due to limited curative therapeutic options. We aim to develop immunotherapeutic strategies to eradicate tumor tissue and induce immunological memory that can prevent tumor recurrence. In both types of cancer the tumor microenvironment is highly immunosuppressive and inhibits tumor eradication by T-cells.

The current research project aims at identifying co-stimulatory molecules that are expressed on tumor-infiltrating T cells and can be targeted to stimulate T-cell immunity within the tumor microenvironment. Using tumor-infiltrating leukocytes isolated from surgically resected tumors, the stimulatory effects of agonistic antibodies against different co-stimulatory molecules on responses of tumor-derived T cells to tumor antigens and autologous tumor cells will be studied ex vivo. The synergistic effects of combining agonistic targeting of co-stimulatory molecules with blocking of co-inhibitory pathways will be investigated. Mechanistically, the role of regulatory T cells and myeloid cell subsets in the effects of these antibodies will be examined. Within this project, we collaborate closely with a pharmaceutical company which develops therapeutic antibodies against co-stimulatory molecules.

This study will elucidate which (combinations of) co-signaling molecules should be targeted to stimulate tumor-specific responses of intra-tumoral T cells optimally, and are therefore most promising to be studied in clinical trials in CRC and HCC patients.

We are seeking a highly motivated junior postdoctoral scientist with a PhD-degree in Cellular Immunology, who is accurate, enterprising, and persevering. The candidate should be a team player and should have published in peer-reviewed journals. Expertise in tumor immunology is an advantage.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct is a condition for the appointment

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

We offer a position as postdoc for 2 years. The gross monthly salary amounts a maximum of € 4.152,- (scale 10), depending on your level of education and relevant experience and based on a full-time working week of 36 hours. The terms of employment are in accordance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement for University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

A healthy population and excellence in healthcare through research and education. This is what Erasmus MC stands for. Conducting groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and leading the way. In research, education, and healthcare. We are practical people with a high level of expertise, working hard to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow.

The Laboratory of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of Erasmus MC, Rotterdam offers a unique environment for high-level biomedical research in liver- and gastrointestinal disorders. About 70 people are working on different research lines guided by 8 principal investigators; gastro-intestinal oncology is a main focus of research. The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for immunological, cell biological, and molecular research.

You will become part of an enthusiastic team consisting of a postdoc and several PhD-students and technicians, guided by a scientist and an academic clinician. You will collaborate with other researchers in our laboratory, with other tumor immunology researchers in Erasmus MC and abroad, oncological surgeons, and scientists of a pharmaceutical company. In addition to performing experimental work, you will publish the results, and help to expand this research line further.