Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Immunology

About your role

The research focuses on developing and applying computational strategies to integrate and analyse complex immunological datasets. Together with the research teams involved, you interpret findings within biological and immunological frameworks. The focus extends beyond describing variation in the immune system and response to vaccination. Identifying underlying mechanisms and guiding subsequent experimental and translational research are equally important.

Your main responsibilities include:

• Developing and applying computational strategies to integrate and analyse complex, high-dimensional datasets.
• Translating analytical findings into biological hypotheses and identifying mechanisms that guide further research.
• Communicating research findings with immunologists, clinicians and other collaborators.
• Collaborating with researchers within the team to experimentally validate the generated hypotheses.

This position combines computational and experimental research. Your work contributes to a better understanding of immune variation and the mechanisms underlying these differences.

About your workplace

Our research focuses on understanding the immune system during infectious diseases and following vaccination. We combine high-dimensional multi-omics approaches with experimental human studies conducted in different geographical settings. Exposure to microorganisms and parasites can vary considerably between these regions. Our aim is to identify global and regional immune features that contribute to protective immunity against infectious diseases. These insights help guide the development of effective vaccines.

Our laboratory generates and analyses complex datasets using techniques such as mass and flow cytometry, single-cell RNA sequencing (single-cell RNA-seq), BCR/TCR sequencing, single-cell ATAC-seq and spatial transcriptomics. We also incorporate other molecular and clinical measurements. These datasets are complemented by data obtained through international collaborations.

Findings from our multi-omics analyses are used to investigate the functional consequences of immune variation. As such, antigen-specific B cell  projects are complemented with functional assays using monoclonal antibodies such as antigen binding and pathogen inhibition capacities, while T cell responsiveness is tested using specific adjuvants, immune modulators and metabolic interventions. 

About you

Complex immunological questions spark your curiosity and motivate you to explore new solutions. An original approach to scientific challenges helps you develop ideas and collaborate effectively with other researchers. You are driven to advance scientific knowledge and can clearly communicate complex research findings to different collaborators.

In addition, you have:

• A completed PhD in systems immunology or bioinformatics, with experience in analysing high-dimensional biological datasets.
• Demonstrated experience in analysing large, multimodal single-cell datasets using statistical and machine-learning approaches.
• Strong programming skills and experience with high-performance computing.
• Excellent spoken and written communication skills in English.

Experience with or an interest in applying emerging artificial intelligence (AI) approaches to complex immunological datasets would be an advantage.

Our offer

Driven by health; that is our mission. This applies not only to our patients but also to our employees. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive and equitable working environment where talent development and inclusive leadership are central. To support continuous learning and professional development, we offer internal training programmes and further education.
In addition, you are entitled to an annual year-end bonus (8.3%), holiday allowance, a bicycle scheme, a sports budget, a working-from-home allowance and an excellent commuting allowance.
As an LUMC employee, you are also enrolled in the ABP pension fund. LUMC pays no less than 70% of your pension contributions, leaving you with a higher net salary. A welcome benefit!

See all employment conditions of the LUMC.

What do we represent?

As an academic medical centre, LUMC strives to build a workforce that reflects the diversity of society. We are committed to the highest standards in healthcare, education and international research, recognising that diverse perspectives are essential to achieving these goals.

Sustainability is also a key priority. We are dedicated to creating a healthy future, not only for people but also for the planet. In line with these values, we aim to provide a creative and inspiring workplace where everyone feels welcome, safe and valued.

What matters to us is who you are and what you contribute, regardless of your background. Together, we are working towards a sustainable and inclusive future for the people around us and the world we live in. Together, we are LUMC.

More information

• As a postdoctoral researcher in computational immunology, your salary will range from € 3,724 to € 5,867 gross per month (salary scale 10, Collective Labour Agreement for University Medical Centres). These amounts are based on full-time employment.
• This is a fixed-term position linked to the duration of the research project.
• The duration of the employment contract is three years.
• A salary increase of 3.5% will take effect on 1 May 2027.
• This vacancy is open to both internal and external candidates. In accordance with LUMC policy, internal candidates will be given priority in the selection process if qualifications are equal.
• Recruitment agencies are kindly requested not to respond to this vacancy.