Tumor-Microbiome Interactions Postdoc

Function description

Wet-Lab Postdoc in the Voest Lab (fully funded) — Understanding and targeting the microbiome to enhance immunotherapy response.

We are recruiting a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join a rapidly expanding microbiome research project. This project aims to better understand the metabolic link between the microbiome and our immune system. The project entails  experimental assessment and validation of the functional capacity of individual bacterial species and defined microbial communities to modulate anti-tumor immune responses. This role has a strong in vitro focus, with computational and in vivo experience highly valued. This position also offers excellent academic training alongside unique opportunities to collaborate closely with leading industry partners in the microbiome and immuno-oncology space. The postdoc will be a key contributor to a collaborative, team-driven project within the Voest group at the Netherlands Cancer Institute.

The postdoc will be expected to develop novel methodologies to assess the impact of microbiota-derived metabolites on immune function and anti-tumor control. In addition to contributing to a collaborative, team-driven research programme, there will be ample opportunity for the candidate to pursue independent scientific ideas aligned with the broader research goals. The role requires an innovative and critical mind to define key biological questions and design robust experimental strategies to address them.

You will:

• Spearhead the development of in vitro model systems which will allow you to assess the impact of microbiota-derived metabolites on anti-tumor immunity.

• Translate your findings to for example patient-derived organoids and mouse models to define the optimal consortia composition for an anti-tumor immune response.

• Collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team of immunologists, microbiologists, and industry partners to translate findings into potential.

Why this Postdoc?

• Cutting-edge microbiome science: Be part of a fast-growing microbiome initiative aimed at developing microbiome-based strategies to improve responses to ICB.

• Innovative experimental platforms: Develop and apply state of the art in vitro immune-microbiome models to unravel how microbiota-derived metabolites and defined bacterial communities modulate anti-tumor immunity.

• Interdisciplinary collaboration: Join a highly collaborative environment linking microbiologists, immunologists, oncologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians to tackle complex biological questions from multiple angles.

• Translational impact: Close collaboration with an industry partner provides a direct link to translational research, with the shared goal of developing microbiome-based biotherapeutic products.

• High-visibility research output: Support to publish in leading journals and present at major international conferences.

• Career development and training: Structured mentorship, grant-writing support, leadership training, and opportunities to supervise students and technicians.

• Independence and project ownership: Space to develop your own research ideas within the broader program and build an independent scientific profile.

• World‑class ecosystem and mentorship: The NKI offers highly visible research groups and inspiring scientific mentors, strong core facilities and a vibrant international community in the heart of Amsterdam.

Why the Netherlands Cancer Institute?

At the Netherlands Cancer Institute, we have a shared goal: providing the best care for every patient and every type of cancer. Quite a lot, but not impossible. Here, science and health care join forces towards innovation. We keep finding new ways to help people facing cancer on a global scale. Here we save lives, gain time and quality.

Job requirements

• PhD in biology, immunology, microbiology or a closely related field.

• Hands‑on experience with in vitro assays relevant to immune function and anti-tumor immunity, supported by a broad experimental skillset.

• A strong scientific curiosity about how the microbiome shapes immune responses and cancer therapy outcomes.

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.

• Prior experience in the microbiome and/or oncology field is an advantage.

• Experience with in vivo models and animal experimentation is a strong plus.

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 2 year's contract for 36 hours per week, Preferred start date: flexible (ideally as soon as possible).

• A gross monthly salary between €4.629,- and €5.503,-, based on a 36-hour working week, in line with FWG 55 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;

• 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 at our Fit Boutiqs;

• An active staff association.

Interested?

We are curious about your talent! Will you be the one to make a difference in the world of cancer care and research? 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 Emile Voest, Groupleader, via e.voest@nki.nl.

This vacancy is open for applications until the 3rd of august.