Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology
1 week ago
Postdoc – In vitro models and mechanistic investigation into Astroblastoma Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology in Netherlands
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Cancer Biology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 30, 2026
Country
Netherlands
University
Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology
How do I apply for this?
Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.
More information can be found here
Keywords
Suggested positions
About this position
Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology in Utrecht, the Netherlands, is offering a postdoctoral position in the Artegiani & Hendriks group, in collaboration with the Kool group, to investigate astroblastoma, a newly recognized pediatric brain tumor type.
The project focuses on developing and studying relevant human in vitro models of astroblastoma and using them to uncover the tumor’s developmental origins, molecular mechanisms, and sex-specific biology. Astroblastoma is a rare pediatric brain tumor with no standard treatment, and recent work from the Kool group identified distinct molecular subtypes with different fusion genes, anatomical sites, clinical behavior, and a striking female predominance in one subtype. This postdoc will help address key questions about tumor initiation, cell-of-origin, and the biological basis of sex bias in these tumors.
The successful candidate will generate novel human in vitro models, perform functional experiments, and contribute to extensive molecular characterization of the models in collaboration with another postdoctoral researcher in the Kool group. The work is embedded in a broad international network on rare pediatric brain tumors and includes collaborations with experts in pediatric neuro-oncology, developmental neuroscience, genomics, and bioinformatics across Europe. The role is highly collaborative and interdisciplinary, involving clinicians, computational biologists, molecular pathologists, and organoid researchers.
This position is best suited to a highly motivated and independent scientist with a PhD in molecular, stem cell, or cancer biology-related disciplines. Strong wet-lab experience is required, ideally with advanced cell culture or organoid systems. Experience in pediatric brain tumors, developmental neuroscience, or cancer epigenomics would be an advantage, as would bioinformatic skills. The group is looking for someone with a strong publication record, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, good data management, and the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary and international setting.
The appointment is full-time and temporary, with a start date of 1 March 2027. The application deadline is 30 November 2026 at 00:30 (Europe/Amsterdam). Interested candidates should apply through the official vacancy page provided by the employer.
Funding details
Available
What's required
PhD or equivalent in molecular, stem cell, or cancer biology related disciplines; other fields will not be considered. Demonstrated wet lab experience, preferably in advanced cell culture models such as organoids, is required. Previous experience with pediatric brain tumors, developmental neuroscience, or cancer epigenomics is advantageous. A competitive publication record, including first authorship or submitted papers in internationally recognized journals, is expected. Bioinformatic skills are a plus. Applicants should have strong motivation for scientific research, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, the ability to independently develop biological hypotheses from complex datasets, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, excellent data management, and excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary and international environment is required.
How to apply
Apply via the official vacancy webpage using the provided application link. Submit your application before 30 November 2026 at 00:30 Europe/Amsterdam. Follow the instructions on the employer website and include the materials requested there.
Ask ApplyKite AI
How do I apply for this?
Sign in for free to reveal details, requirements, and source links.