PhD student (DC1) The ribomethylation (Nm) epitranscriptome of prostate cancer

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) EURECA at the Laboratory of Experimental Urology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.

EURECA (www.eureca-dn.com) is a multinational, interdisciplinary consortium aiming to elucidate how epitranscriptomic RNA modifications influence cancer biology, with the ultimate goal of exploiting their translational potential for cancer diagnosis and treatment. 

This PhD project (DC1) will focus on understanding how ribosomal RNA 2’-O-methylation (Nm) contributes to cancer ribosome function and prostate cancer progression, with a strong emphasis on translational and mechanistic insights. 

The doctoral candidate will pursue the following objectives:

• Investigate the effects of Nm perturbation at selected ribosomal sites on cancer hallmarks associated with cancer progression and
• Analyze affected downstream molecular pathways to uncover their role in ribosome function and prostate cancer progression.

The doctoral candidate will benefit from several international secondments, providing diverse research training and exposure to complementary methodologies across Europe. The positions offer a competitive salary in accordance with MSCA regulations, including mobility and, where applicable, family allowances.

Work environment

Erasmus MC in Rotterdam is a Europe’s leading university medical center focused on high-quality patient care, groundbreaking scientific research, and innovative education. With dedication, employees work in a state-of-the-art environment to improve the care of today and the health of tomorrow. One of the key objectives of Erasmus MC is to keep healthcare accessible and guarantee the availability of real innovations, taking into account today's major global challenges.

You will work within the Erasmus MC Laboratory of Experimental Urology at the Department of Urology embedded within the Erasmus Cancer Institute where clinical care, scientific research and technological innovation are closely integrated. 

The project will be conducted in multidisciplinary collaboration between urology, oncology and pathology. Within this team you will work alongside physicians, researchers and specialized laboratory staff. This environment offers a unique combination of patient care, advanced molecular techniques and an insight in the discovery and pre-clinical development of novel diagnostics and treatments for solid tumors.

Qualifications and skills

Applicants must meet both the MSCA eligibility criteria and project-specific requirements.

Mandatory Requirements

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in molecular biology, biomedical sciences, cancer biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a closely related field
• Ability to start before 30 October 2026
• Eligibility according to MSCA-DN rules, including:
  • You must not hold a doctorate at the time of recruitment. Researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but have not yet formally received their doctorate will not be considered eligible.
  • Mobility rule: Candidates may be of any nationality. Candidates must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in The Netherlands for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding their recruitment date. Mandatory national service, short-term stays such as holidays, and time spent by the researcher in the process of obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention are not taken into account.
• Demonstrated interest and, ideally, experience in RNA biology, epitranscriptomics, and/or cancer research.
• Willingness to travel for short and extended periods.
• Excellent communication skills demonstrable in written and spoken English.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Hands-on experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques is a strong pre, such as:
  • Cell culture (preferably cancer cell lines)
  • CRISPR-Cas9 and/or other genetic manipulation techniques
  • DNA, RNA and protein analysis
• Interest or experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Ribosome biology
  • Epigenetics or epitranscriptomics
  • 3D cell culture models or in vivo (xenograft) studies
• Operational knowledge of Microsoft Office, statistics, and data visualization.
• Analytical mindset, scientific curiosity
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• A structured and independent work style and ability to work in a multidisciplinary and international environment with a pro-active team spirit 

Before you apply please check our conditions for employment.

Terms of employment

• You will receive a temporary position for 12 months with the possibility to extend to a total of 48 months.
• The gross monthly salary is € 3.108,- in the 1st year and it gradually increases to € 3.939,- in the 4th year (scale OIO) based on a full-time workweek of 36 hours. Excellent fringe benefits, such as a 13th month that is already paid out in November and an individual travel expense package.
• An International Office which aids you in preparing for your arrival and stay.
• Pension insurance with ABP. We take care of approximately 2/3 of the monthly contribution.
• Special benefits, such as an in-company physiotherapist and bicycle repairer.
• Gym at the premises of Erasmus MC to work on your fitness after work.
• Before you apply please check our Erasmus MC conditions for employment.

More information

Make this job your next career move! Apply now using the application button. It all starts with taking action.

Detailed description of the recruitment procedure is available at https://eureca-dn.com/recruitment/.

Do you have questions about the role Feel free to reach out to Dr. Elena S. Martens-Uzunova, Assistant Professor at the Department of Urology and EURECA Network coordinator, via mail (embedded link: e.martens@erasmusmc.nl).

Acquisitions in response to this vacancy will not be considered. No agencies please. 

No agencies please.