Radboud University in the Netherlands is offering a fully funded PhD position in Molecular Biology, focusing on the study of protein regulatory networks in cancer within the Vermeulen Lab. The project is part of the Oncode Accelerator Growth Fund and aims to accelerate the development of new cancer therapies by employing innovative omics strategies and proteomic tools to study protein interactions and signaling pathways in primary cancer tissues, organoids, and clinical samples.

The research will involve optimizing and implementing proteomic workflows for highly limited, heterogeneous samples, enabling in-depth profiling of tumor biology. A significant component includes establishing intratumoral heterogeneity maps using spatial proteomic profiling and exploring single-cell proteomics approaches to gain additional resolution on cell-state diversity within tumors. Collaboration with a postdoctoral researcher will facilitate the development and application of novel proximity-labeling strategies to chart dynamic protein–protein interactions and local proteome environments. These efforts will contribute to large-scale interaction and signaling network analyses across clinically annotated cohorts, generating a high-resolution view of cancer-specific protein interaction networks and informing new hypotheses on epigenetic control in cancer.

The Vermeulen Lab specializes in state-of-the-art proteomics technologies to understand how proteins and protein networks regulate gene expression and cell fate in health and disease. The group is dynamic, internationally recognized, and part of the Oncode Accelerator consortium, offering opportunities for collaboration with affiliated groups and pharmaceutical companies across the Netherlands. The Faculty of Science at Radboud University is known for its groundbreaking research, excellent education, and strong international character, providing a supportive and inclusive environment for researchers from over 70 countries.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field, with a strong interest in mass spectrometry-based proteomics, cancer biology, and gene regulation. Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular cloning is required, and prior experience with mass spectrometry-based techniques is advantageous. Candidates should possess a collaborative mindset, analytical thinking skills, and motivation to work in an interdisciplinary environment.

The position offers a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) of 1.5 years, extendable by 2.5 years upon positive evaluation. The starting gross monthly salary is €3,059, increasing to €3,881 in the fourth year, with additional benefits such as an 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, extra days off, flexible working hours, a good pension plan, and discounts on sports and cultural activities. Dual Career Coaching may be available for partners.

The application deadline is 04 January 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the Radboud University job portal, addressing their application letter to Professor Michiel Vermeulen and submitting all required documents as specified in the application form. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates passionate about molecular biology, proteomics, and cancer research to join a leading research group and contribute to impactful scientific discoveries.