PhD in Pediatric Oncology and AI-Driven Drug Discovery (Neuroblastoma Modeling) Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology in Netherlands

PhD opportunity in Pediatric Oncology and AI-driven drug discovery at the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology in Utrecht, Netherlands.

The project is titled RECOMBINE-X (Neuroblastoma Modeling) and focuses on translational cancer research with direct relevance to treatment strategies for high-risk neuroblastoma. The work combines drug combination discovery, PBPK/PD modeling, and preclinical validation in clinically relevant cancer models.

You will work on in vitro and in vivo validation of drug responses, 3D tumor models such as spheroids and organoids, patient-derived systems, and experiments designed to study pharmacodynamics including apoptosis, proliferation, and pathway effects. The role also involves collaboration with bioinformaticians, clinicians, and data scientists in an interdisciplinary consortium.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold an MSc in pharmacology, biomedical sciences, oncology, or a related field. Strong wet-lab experience is required, especially cell culture. Experience with drug assays and molecular techniques is a plus, and basic data analysis or programming skills in R/Python are preferred.

Funding: the position is full-time for 4 years with a salary of about €3,813 per month plus benefits.

Supervisor: Professor Jan Molenaar.

Application: use the link in the post to access the opportunity details and application route.