Volkher Scharnhorst

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on advancing lung cancer diagnostics through the development of standardized biomarker assays using state-of-the-art mass spectrometry. The project addresses the current limitations in clinical application of protein tumor markers (TMs) in blood, which are promising for minimally invasive decision-making but suffer from inconsistent results due to a lack of standardized immunoassays. The successful candidate will develop reference measurement procedures (RMPs) and reference materials (RMs) for several protein TMs, enabling harmonized and reproducible measurements across clinical platforms. The research will involve advanced analytical approaches such as immunoextraction of full proteins, SISCAPA-based peptide extraction, and targeted bottom-up proteomics methods using mass spectrometry. Engineering of full proteins and signature peptides for method development, calibration, and quality control will be key tasks. The project is embedded in the TU/e Laboratory of Chemical Biology and the Expertise Center Clinical Chemistry Eindhoven (ECCCE), a collaboration between TU/e, Catharina Hospital, and Máxima Medisch Centrum, and includes partnerships with Roche Diagnostics and SISCAPA. The candidate will benefit from access to state-of-the-art analytical facilities and a strong translational research network that bridges chemical biology, clinical diagnostics, and industry. Supervision will be provided by Dr. Luc Brunsveld, Dr. Volkher Scharnhorst, and a multidisciplinary team with expertise in proteomics, assay development, and clinical translation. The position offers full-time employment for four years, competitive salary and benefits, and opportunities for professional development, including teaching and coaching students. Applicants should have a master’s degree in (bio)analytical chemistry, clinical chemistry, biomedical sciences, or related fields, with a strong interest in biomarkers, proteomics, and clinical translation. Experience in chromatography and mass spectrometry is preferred, and fluency in Dutch and/or English is required. The application process is online, and candidates must submit a cover letter, CV, and references. The position remains open until filled, with a formal deadline of November 9, 2025.