PhD candidate/ junior postdoc in tumor cell biology

The Faculty of Science and Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, is looking for a:

PhD candidate/ junior postdoc in tumor cell biology

Vacancy number:  23-079

Scientific Context
Many pathologies, including cancer and fibrosis, involve extensive remodeling of the affected tissue, which drives progression of the disease and negatively impacts on drug efficacy. In addition to rewiring of signaling networks between various cell types such as fibroblasts and immune cells, changes in the metabolic environment and altered tissue mechanics are involved. The group of Prof. dr. Erik Danen (https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/drug-research/drug-discovery-and-safety/cancer-drug-target-discovery ) in the division of Drug Discovery and Safety in LACDR, develops tissue culture models incorporating the complex interplay between tumors and the tumor microenvironment including extracellular matrix, fibroblasts, and different types of immune cells. The models are used to explore fundamental mechanisms of disease progression and applied with Pharma/biotech in drug development strategies.

Key responsibilities
Natural killer (NK) cells are key players in the antitumor immune response. Like T cells, NK cells are suppressed in the tumor microenvironment. You will develop models for the study of NK cell mediated anti-tumor activity. You will set up 3D co-culture models and establish (real time) imaging to analyze NK cell recruitment and tumor killing activity. Our ongoing expertise with modeling the tumor microenvironment will be implemented to address how variations in the tumor and in its microenvironment, impact NK cell activity. The models will be used to identify and target NK cell suppressive mechanisms using genetic and pharmacological approaches.

Selection Criteria
•    MSc degree or recent PhD degree in a life sciences-related study;
•    Motivated to excel in science;
•    Expertise in cell biology and/or immunology, microscopy, molecular biology, biochemistry;
•    Proficient in English, both verbally and in writing;
•    Excellent communication and writing skills;
•    Team spirit but able to work independently, critical, and results oriented.

Our organization
The Faculty of Science of Leiden University spans the entire spectrum of natural sciences. It is a dynamic, international scientific environment which sets high standards while being characterized by a team-spirited atmosphere, which promotes exchange of knowledge. Within the Faculty, LACDR conducts fundamental and strategic scientific research in the field of innovative drug research and is well-positioned at the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park, one of Europe’s biggest science parks. Presently, about 200 research staff (including postdocs and PhDs) are employed at LACDR. The division Drug Discovery and Safety is strongly invested in the Faculty’s Cell Observatory where microscopic imaging of several Institutes is housed, creating an interactive and interdisciplinary environment. For more information, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/drug-research  

Terms and conditions
Option 1 – PhD 
We offer a 1-year position with the possibility of extension to 4 years based on performance. Salary ranges from € 2.541.- gross per month in the first year to € 3.247 gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).   

Option 2 - Postdoc 
We offer a 1-year position with the possibility of extension to 4 years based on performance. Salary ranges from € 2.960 to € 4.670 gross per month (pay scale 10) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

Information 
Enquiries can be made to Prof.Dr. Erik Danen ( [email protected]  ). If you have any questions about the procedure, please contact Mrs. Myrtille Koerselman (email: [email protected]).

Applications 
To apply for this vacancy, please send an email to Mrs. Myrtille Koerselman (email: [email protected]  ) before February 26, 2023.
Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents quoting the vacancy number:
•    A letter of motivation
•    A curriculum vitae
•    Contact information for at least two references