This website uses cookies
We, and third parties, use cookies on our website. We use cookies to ensure that our website functions properly, to store your preferences, to gain insight into visitor behavior, but also for marketing and social media purposes (showing personalized advertisements). By clicking 'Accept', you agree to the use of all cookies. In our Cookie Statement. you can read more about the cookies we use and save or change your preferences. By clicking 'Refuse' you only agree to the use of functional cookies.
Your role
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the deadliest cancer types, with a very poor survival rate. In this ERC-funded PhD project, you will work at the forefront of translational cancer research to develop novel targeted therapeutics aimed at modulating the tumor stroma and improving the efficacy of chemo-immunotherapy in PDAC. You will explore innovative strategies using peptide-based therapeutics and nanomedicine approaches.
A hallmark of PDAC is its abundant and complex tumor stroma, which not only supports tumor progression but also forms a major barrier to effective treatment. Conventional therapies, including chemotherapy and even the most advanced immunotherapies, have shown limited clinical benefit for many patients.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to impactful research that may ultimately improve outcomes for patients with pancreatic cancer.
As a PhD candidate, you will:
- Design and conduct experimental studies on stromal biology in PDAC.
- Develop and test peptide- and nano-based targeted therapeutic strategies.
- Work with in vitro and in vivo PDAC models.
- Analyze and interpret experimental data and present findings at meetings and conferences.
- Contribute to scientific publications and your PhD thesis.
- Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary team members, including biologists, clinicians, and pharmaceutical scientists.
Your workplace
You will work in a collaborative environment where basic scientists and clinicians closely interact, enabling real translational impact. The team consists of motivated PhD candidates, postdocs, technicians, and clinician-scientists who support each other’s development and success.
Medical BioSciences is a science department where fundamental and translational biomedical research come together. You will study disease and health from the molecular level to clinical application, with a strong focus on medical innovation. Researchers work closely with clinicians to translate new insights into better diagnostics and treatments. Using experimental and data-driven approaches, we study biochemical, cellular, and physiological processes in health and disease.
Your profile
You are a curious, proactive, and scientifically driven PhD candidate. In addition, you are able to work independently as well as in a team. Strong organizational and communication skills support your daily work, while perseverance and a critical scientific mindset characterize your overall approach.
Key requirements
- Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, molecular biology, nanomedicine, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience with cell culture and molecular/biochemical techniques.
- Strong interest in cancer biology and translational research.
- Excellent command of English (written and spoken).
Preferred
- Experience with animal models, peptide design, or drug delivery systems.
- Experience in nanomedicine or biomaterials.
Good to know
- This position requires a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).