PhD tumor immunology of peritoneal metastasis

The treatment of colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases represents one of the greatest challenges in oncology. Despite intensive research, effective therapies remain scarce and the prognosis for this patient group is poor. Although immunotherapy is promising for various types of cancer, patients with peritoneal metastases generally respond inadequately to these therapies.

Recent research indicates that abnormal tumor glycans play an important role in suppressing anti-tumor immunity. In this KWF-funded project, you will investigate how glycan structures affect immune responses in peritoneal metastasis and whether glycan inhibition can restore anti-tumor immunity.

You will:

• investigate how tumor-associated glycan structures, particularly sialic acids, influence and suppress immune responses against peritoneal metastases;
• test in patient material and in vivo models whether sialic acid inhibition reactivates the immune system;
• analyze and interpret research data using various immunological and cell biological techniques, such as flow cytometry and tumor slice cultures;
• present research findings at (inter)national conferences and symposia;
• supervise a bachelor and/or master student during a research internship within the project;
• contribute to immunology and biochemistry education within the department, for example by teaching work groups or practicals.

• You hold a master's degree in Biomedical sciences or equivalent;
• You have strong analytical and problem-solving skills;
• You have experience with flow cytometry and/or human tissue slice cultures;
• You are willing to work with animal models (an article 9 certificate and prior experience are an advantage);
• You are a flexible, proactive team player, but can also work independently;
• You have excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.