PhD Vacancy at Erasmus Medical Center | Apply Now
Looking for a PhD vacancy in cutting-edge cancer research? This opportunity at Erasmus MC offers aspiring researchers a chance to work on the ribomethylation epitranscriptome of prostate cancer within a globally recognized research environment. If you’re passionate about molecular biology, RNA research, and translational oncology, this PhD position in Europe could be your ideal career step.
- Job Position: PhD Student (DC1) – The ribomethylation (Nm) epitranscriptome of prostate cancer
- Location: Rotterdam, The Netherlands (Europe)
About the Center
PhD vacancy at Erasmus Medical Center offers a unique opportunity to work in one of Europe’s leading university medical centers. Erasmus MC in Rotterdam is 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, offering exposure to advanced molecular techniques and translational research.
PhD Vacancy Description
PhD vacancy opportunity within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN) EURECA at Erasmus MC. EURECA 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 benefit from several international secondments, providing diverse research training and exposure to complementary methodologies across Europe.
Qualifications
PhD vacancy requirements include:
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
- Must not hold a doctorate at the time of recruitment
- Must comply with MSCA-DN mobility rules
- Demonstrated interest in RNA biology, epitranscriptomics, or cancer research
- Willingness to travel internationally
- Excellent communication skills in English
Desired Skills and Experience
- Experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques such as cell culture, CRISPR-Cas9, DNA/RNA/protein analysis
- Interest in ribosome biology, epigenetics, epitranscriptomics, or 3D cell culture models
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office, statistics, and data visualization
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams
Key Responsibilities
PhD vacancy responsibilities include:
- Investigate the effects of Nm perturbation at selected ribosomal sites on cancer hallmarks associated with cancer progression
- Analyze affected downstream molecular pathways to uncover their role in ribosome function and prostate cancer progression
- Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams across urology, oncology, and pathology
- Participate in international secondments and training programs
Work Environment
PhD vacancy offers a collaborative and innovative work environment within the Erasmus Cancer Institute. You will work alongside physicians, researchers, and specialized laboratory staff, gaining exposure to patient care integration, advanced molecular techniques, and pre-clinical development of diagnostics and treatments for solid tumors.
Salary & Benefits of PhD Vacancy
- Temporary position for 12 months, extendable to 48 months
- Gross monthly salary from €3,108 (Year 1) to €3,939 (Year 4)
- 13th month salary benefit
- Mobility and family allowances (as applicable)
- Pension insurance with ABP
- International Office support for relocation
- On-site gym, physiotherapist, and bicycle repair services
- Travel expense package
