PhD Candidate in Immunopathogenesis of Aggressivae B-Cell Lymphomas

About your role

The malignant diseases of mature B-cells continue to puzzle us with the mysteries surrounding the origin and behavior of lymphomas. With a wide diversity of B-cell malignancies, each type demands a tailored approach and specific treatments. Our lymphoma research group focuses on deciphering the mechanisms driving these diseases.

Our work has highlighted the crucial role of the B-cell receptor on the cell surface. The signaling pathways associated with it often involve mutated proteins. We investigate how these mutations affect B-cell receptor signaling and how they contribute to aggressive lymphoma development.

As a PhD candidate, your research will explore the interplay between B-cell receptor signals and mutated proteins using advanced techniques such as Calcium flux measurements, CRISPR/Cas gene editing and in vitro B-cell maturation using from modified stem cells in an organoid model.

About your workplace

Lymphoma research is part of the research lab of the Department of Hematology, where we investigate a wide range of themes related to hematological malignancies and their treatments.

The open and friendly atmosphere within the lymphoma group and among colleagues from other groups in the lab ensures that there’s always someone available to help if your cell culture or technique lets you down. Sometimes a plan or a wild idea emerges during lunch at the end of Friday when you review the week together, tired but relaxed.

Your project leader guides and supports you, and there is plenty of room for your own input. All this within the department, but also, for example, in close collaboration with the research lab of the Willem-Alexander Children’s Hospital in the LUMC.

About you

You have a curious and critical mindset: you excel at asking questions of yourself and others, seeking answers through cellular, molecular immunological, and bioinformatics experiments. Additionally, you thrive on collaboration, exchanging ideas, and inspiring your colleagues while supporting one another. Furthermore, you have:

• A completed Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences or an equivalent field, with proven success and enthusiasm.

Our offer

Driven by health; that's our mission. This applies not only to our patients but also to our employees. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive and equitable work environment, with a focus on talent development and connected leadership. As a PhD candidate, you’ll embark on a trajectory that includes comprehensive training through courses provided by LUMC together with presenting your findings, and receiving feedback from international experts in the field. You are also entitled to an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), holiday allowance, sports budget, bicycle scheme, home office allowance and an excellent commuting allowance. Furthermore, as an employee of LUMC, you are also affiliated with the ABP pension fund. This means that 70% of your pension premium is paid by LUMC, leaving you with a higher net salary. Nice, right?

See all employment conditions of the LUMC.

What do we represent?

As an academic medical center, LUMC strives to have a workforce that is a good reflection of society. We are committed to the highest quality in health care, education and (international) research, in which diverse perspectives are essential. Sustainability is also a high priority for us: we are committed to a healthy future, not only for people, but also for the planet. In line with these values, we aim to be a creative and inspiring place to work, where everyone feels at home, safe and valued. It's all about who you are and what you bring to contribute, regardless of your background. Together, we work toward a sustainable and inclusive future, both for the people around us and for the world we live in. Together, we are LUMC.

More information

• As a PhD candidate your salary will be between €3,017,- and €3,824,- gross per month (scale Pro, CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.
• As a PhD candidate, you will receive an appointment to complete your dissertation over a maximum of four years.
• The position starts on June 1, 2025.
• For this vacancy, we request a motivation letter and CV. References will also be checked.
• The selection process includes multiple rounds, including an oral interview and a presentation.
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.