Postdoc – Organoid models and mechanistic investigation into Astroblastoma

We are seeking an enthusiastic and ambitious postdoctoral researcher to join the Artegiani & Hendriks group at the Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology. You will lead the development and study of relevant human in vitro models of astroblastoma, a newly recognized pediatric brain tumor type. Working in a highly collaborative environment together with the Kool group in the Máxima, you will uncover the developmental origins, molecular mechanisms and sex-specific biology of astroblastoma, providing a roadmap also for future therapeutic strategies.

The research project

Astroblastoma is a rare pediatric brain tumor for which no standard treatment currently exists. Recent work from the Kool group identified three molecular subtypes characterized by distinct fusion genes, anatomical locations, clinical behavior and a remarkable female predominance in one subtype (PMID: 41429568). However, the mechanisms underlying tumor initiation, cellular origin and sex bias remain unknown.

As a postdoctoral researcher working on this collaborative project, you will generate novel in vitro human models of astroblastoma, and use these for functional experiments, to understand the developmental cell(s)-of-origin and uncover mechanisms underlying the striking sex differences observed in these tumors. These models will also be extensively molecularly characterized in collaboration with the postdoctoral researcher in the Kool group, guiding functional validation studies.

The project is embedded within a large international network on rare pediatric brain tumors and includes collaborations with leading experts in pediatric neuro-oncology, developmental neuroscience, genomics and bioinformatics across Europe. You will work closely with clinicians, computational biologists, molecular pathologists and organoid researchers at the Princess Máxima Center.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and independent scientist who is excited to address fundamental questions in pediatric brain tumor biology. Together with the second postdoctoral researcher you will spearhead this project.

You should have:

• PhD in molecular, stem cell, or cancer biology related disciplines. Other field will not be considered.
• Demonstrated wet lab experience, possibly in advanced cell culture models, such as organoids, and related techniques.
• Previous experience with pediatric (brain) tumors, developmental neuroscience, or cancer epigenomics is advantageous.
• A competitive publication record (including first authorship or submitted papers in internationally recognized journals)
• A degree of bioinformatic skills is a pro.
• A strong intrinsic motivation for scientific research.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to independently develop biological hypotheses from complex datasets.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and excellent data management practices.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• The ability to work independently while thriving in a multidisciplinary and international research environment.