PhD candidate in Radiology at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC)

For a KWF project, we are seeking a motivated all-round PhD candidate (graduate in medicine or technical medicine) to coordinate and conduct a nationwide multicenter diagnostic trial. In addition to two clinical work packages, this study also includes a preclinical work package and a cost-effectiveness and quality-of-life work package. The goal of this project is to lead to the candidate's PhD.

Deadline: 11 Dec 2023
APPLY HERE

What will you be doing?

As a PhD candidate in our team, you will play a crucial role in the research on the implementation of [18F]FAPI-PET/CT as a non-invasive imaging biomarker to improve the non-invasive staging of locally advanced gastric cancer. The aim of this research is to reduce the need for invasive staging techniques using laparoscopy, with the ultimate goal of optimizing the treatment of patients with gastric cancer.

As part of our team, you will take on a wide range of responsibilities and tasks, focused on advancing our clinical and preclinical research on gastric cancer. This includes close collaboration with patient representatives, leading preclinical researchers, HTA specialists, and medical professionals, including nuclear medicine physicians, surgeons, pathologists, medical oncologists, and radiotherapists in 12 different hospitals and universities.

You will be involved in writing METC applications, recruiting and selecting suitable patients for the study, coordinating [18F]FAPI-PET/CT imaging and data collection, as well as assisting in collecting tissue during surgeries. Additionally, you will analyze data in the fields of imaging, pathology, and clinical data, conduct preclinical (lab) research, administer quality-of-life questionnaires, and perform cost-effectiveness analyses.

You will actively participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and present study results at scientific meetings and (international) conferences. Finally, you will play a key role in interpreting research results and contributing to the publication of findings, making a crucial contribution to the progress of our research in the field of gastric cancer.

What do you bring?

• Completed studies in medicine or technical medicine.
• Interest in clinical and preclinical (translational) oncological research.
• Enthusiastic, socially skilled, creative, accurate, and a team player.
• Good communication skills and proficiency in both Dutch and English.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of qualitative and quantitative data collection and statistical analyses.
• Independent and proactive in performing research tasks.
• Demonstrable research experience, project management skills, and/or affinity with patient research are a plus.
• Knowledge of imaging techniques and PET/CT is recommended but not essential.
• Possession of a BROK certificate is a plus but can also be obtained after appointment.
• Willingness to travel regularly between the different centers spread across the Netherlands.

What do we offer you?

Pushing boundaries for improvement; that is our mission. This applies not only to healthcare but also to our employees. To continue learning and developing, we offer internal training and further education. In addition, you are entitled to an annual bonus (8.3%), holiday pay, a bicycle scheme, and a sports budget. As an LUMC employee, you are also a member of the ABP pension fund. This means that a whopping 70% of your pension premium is paid by the LUMC, leaving you with more net salary.

Where will you work?

You will be guided by a multidisciplinary team of experienced clinical and pre-clinical researchers from Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), and the University of Twente. However, your workplace will primarily be located in the radiology department within the research group of nuclear medicine. Here, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse group of PhD candidates with different backgrounds, ranging from medical professionals to technical medical specialists and even a mathematician. This diversity of expertise creates a stimulating environment where ideas and innovation thrive. Hard work is as much appreciated as conviviality, with informal drinks, enjoyable dinners, exciting team outings, joint writing weeks, bi-weekly research meetings, and the opportunity to attend symposia and (international) conferences. Our research group is characterized by a unique collaboration, where we share the same room, and coffee and lunch breaks are not only moments to recharge but also opportunities to exchange ideas and spar with colleagues. This contributes to a close and supportive working culture, where everyone is willing to help and inspire each other. What makes this workplace even more special is that, in 2021, the head of our research group received the prestigious LUMC Supervisor of the Year Award on behalf of the supervisors of the research group. This underscores their dedication to their PhD candidates, not only during the PhD trajectory but also afterward. Our supervisors have an eye for the person behind the PhD candidate and provide personal advice to shape your career. In short, with us, you will find not only an engaging research environment but also a warm and supportive community that promotes both your professional and personal growth.

More information

• As a medical researcher, your salary is at least €3,359 and a maximum of €5,292 (scale 10, CAO UMC). These amounts are based on a full-time employment contract.
• The job interviews will take place on December 12, 2023. Mark this date in your calendar.
• Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.