The Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) is offering three fully funded PhD positions within the HER-CARE Doctoral Network, focusing on hereditary and early-onset breast cancer epidemiology. This international program aims to advance research on genetic, immunologic, and clinical risk factors for breast cancer, integrating data-driven approaches and clinical translation. Successful candidates will join a collaborative network of academic and industrial partners, participate in two secondments (one academic and one non-academic), and benefit from a dynamic research environment with access to state-of-the-art core facilities, network-wide training, and conference opportunities.

Research projects include: (1) identifying risk and protective factors for contralateral breast cancer, (2) developing predictive models and online tools for shared decision-making in risk management, and (3) characterizing genomic signatures of early-onset breast cancer. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, innovative statistical analysis, and integration of large-scale genomic, histological, and immunological data.

Applicants must hold an MSc in epidemiology, biostatistics, bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field such as public health, population genetics, or data science. Prior experience in cancer epidemiology is preferred. Candidates must demonstrate strong academic English skills, a problem-solving mindset, interdisciplinary curiosity, and excellent communication abilities for international teamwork. Eligibility requires that candidates have not resided or been mainly active in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment, must not already possess a PhD, and must hold a Master's degree before the program starts or by September 2026.

Funding includes a four-year contract, a gross monthly salary between €3,665 and €4,450, holiday and personal life budget hours, annual holiday pay, end-of-year bonus, travel allowance, free parking, and discounts on public transport. The NKI provides a vibrant, multidisciplinary research environment with opportunities for professional development and collaboration across disciplines.

To apply, candidates should submit a motivation letter, CV with MSc grades and publications, and contact details of two references as a single document via the application link. The deadline for applications is December 31, 2025. Interviews will be held in January and February 2026. For questions, contact [email protected].