Computational Postdoc

Computational Postdoc Voest Lab (fully funded) — Spatial Decoding of Unconventional Antitumor Immunity in Colorectal Cancer

We are recruiting a computational postdoctoral fellow to spearhead a cutting-edge project building on our discovery that B2M-mutant, CD8-evasive colorectal cancers can show exceptional responses to immunotherapy. By integrating large-scale spatial transcriptomic and proteomic data from immunotherapy-treated MSI tumors, this project aims to uncover the principles of potent antitumor immunity beyond CD8 T cells. The postdoc will be a key driver of a central project within the Voest/van de Haar group at the Netherlands Cancer Institute.

Based on DRUP study data (Nature, 2019), we previously published about the clinical paradox that B2M-mutant colorectal cancers, which are invisible to CD8 T cells, show exceptional immunotherapy responses due to specific vulnerabilities to other immune cells (Nature, 2023). Here, we are recruiting a computational postdoctoral fellow to build upon this and spearhead a cutting-edge computational project, integrating large-scale spatial transcriptomic and proteomic data of microsatellite instable (MSI) colorectal cancers treated with immunotherapy. The aim is to use MSI cancers as a unique immunological case (very immunogenic, yet CD8 T cell evasive) to uncover the principles of powerful antitumor immunity beyond CD8 T cells, to directly inform the development of next-generation immunotherapies for CD8-evasive cancers.

Your role

The successful candidate will be expected to develop original analytical frameworks using best-in-class spatial profiling technologies, in close collaboration with experimentalists and clinician-scientists working on leading immunotherapy trials, as well as commercial partners in the drug development field. With this project, the candidate will have all the ingredients to build a visible scientific profile at the forefront of spatial immuno-oncology.

Projects are embedded in ongoing, data‑rich clinical trials and preclinical programs, where experimentalists, computational scientists and clinicians closely collaborate to make a real impact for patients. The NKI offers a world-class ecosystem with highly visible research groups and inspiring scientific mentors, strong core facilities and a vibrant international community in the heart of Amsterdam.

You will use a spatial lens to understand in great detail what each immune cell is doing within CD8-evasive yet highly immunogenic colorectal cancers. This will then be used to discover unique targetable components of an effective immune infiltrate for next-generation immunotherapies. You will then collaborate with a highly diverse team to bring your findings to patients.

• PhD in computational (cancer) immunology or a closely related field;

• Hands‑on experience with single cell transcriptomics and spatial tumor profiling;

• Strong drive and inherent excitement to discover novel immunotherapeutic targets for cancer, using complex computational analyses;

• Fluent in English.

Your development opportunities and employment conditions

The basis for your employment conditions is in accordance with the CLA Hospitals. You will receive from us:

• A contract for 2 years, for 36 hours per week. Preferred startdate: flexible (ideally soon);

• A gross monthly salary between € 4.539,- and € 5.395,-, based on a 36-hour working week, in line with FWG55 and depending on your experience;

• 144 holiday hours and 57 hours of Personal Life Budget, with full-time employment;

• Annual holiday pay of 8.33% and a fixed end-of-year bonus of 8.33%;

• A travel allowance of €0.23 per km;

• Free parking at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. And with our bicycle plan and discount on public transport we also make it attractive for you to leave the car at home;

• Personal mentorship from established PIs and senior scientists; clear milestones and career development plans for a strong and visible scientific profile;

• A great opportunity in a specialised hospital where you can also continue to learn and grow yourself if you wish: the AVL Academy offers innovative and inspiring education in the field of oncology professional knowledge, skills and personal development;

• Opportunity to exercise during working hours at our Fit Boutiqs;

• An active staff association.

Interested?

If you are passionate about joining us to push the boundaries of immunotherapy in colorectal cancer through computation, please submit your application by using the apply/solliciteer button. Please provide a cover letter, list of references, and a CV with publications and presentations, and grades from your bachelor’s and master’s degrees attached (if available). Make sure to include your all the information in one or two files, as there is no option to submit everything separately.

For further information about the position, please contact Joris van de Haar, Senior Postdoc, j.vd.haar@nki.nl.

This vacancy is open for applications until Friday 27 February 2026.