Postdoc Researcher

About your role

You will work on a research project focused on developing new strategies to enhance the function of dendritic cells and thereby improve the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy. The project specifically investigates how modulation of galectin-9 in dendritic cells can strengthen anti-tumor immune responses. In this role, you will conduct experimental research, analyse immunological processes and contribute to the development of innovative therapeutic approaches within a multidisciplinary research team.

Your main responsibilities include:

• Developing and implementing antibody-based targeting strategies to increase galectin levels in dendritic cells.
• Performing immunological assays, including ELISA, T-cell activation and profiling, and tumor cell-killing experiments.
• Supervising and training students in experimental techniques and laboratory work.
• Communicating research findings through scientific publications and presentations at meetings and conferences.

You will work in an innovative research environment where fundamental immunology and translational research come together, with the shared goal of translating new scientific insights into more effective cancer treatments.

About your workplace

Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) is an academic hospital where patient care, education and scientific research are closely connected. Within this environment, physicians, researchers and other professionals work together to generate new insights that directly contribute to improved diagnostics and treatments for patients.

You will join the Department of Immunology at LUMC. Research within the department ranges from fundamental immunological mechanisms to clinical applications, with the aim of improving the diagnosis and treatment of immune-related disorders such as immunodeficiencies, autoimmune diseases and cancer. The department consists of approximately 150 staff members and includes one clinical diagnostic unit and ten research groups, creating a setting where laboratory research and clinical practice are closely intertwined.

Within this department, you will be part of a project led by Dr. Martijn Verdoes and Dr. Laia Querol Cano within the Chemical Immunology Group. This group brings together chemistry, protein engineering and immunology, with a focus on developing innovative vaccine technologies and targeted delivery strategies for immunotherapeutics. You will work in an international and interdisciplinary team where knowledge sharing, collaboration and scientific curiosity are central.

About you

You work carefully and take responsibility for the quality of your research. Even when multiple experiments and collaborations run in parallel, you maintain structure and keep a clear overview. In the lab you work independently and in an organized manner, while actively collaborating with colleagues and external partners. You communicate your findings clearly and contribute to an open and supportive research environment. At the same time, you strive for robust results and remain curious about new methodological approaches.

In addition, you bring:

• A PhD in chemical immunology, chemical biology, or a related field.
• Proven experience with immunological and cell biological techniques in a research environment.
• Experience with molecular biology and protein engineering.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.

Our offer

Driven by health; that's our mission. This applies not only to our patients but also to our employees. We strive to provide a safe, inclusive and equitable work environment, with a focus on talent development and connected leadership. In order to be able to continue to learn and develop, we offer internal and external training. You are also entitled to an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), holiday allowance, sports budget, bicycle scheme, home office allowance and an excellent commuting allowance. Furthermore, as an employee of LUMC, you are also affiliated with the ABP pension fund. This means that 70% of your pension premium is paid by LUMC, leaving you with a higher net salary. Nice, right?

See all employment conditions of the LUMC.

What do we represent?

As an academic medical center, LUMC strives to have a workforce that is a good reflection of society. We are committed to the highest quality in health care, education and (international) research, in which diverse perspectives are essential. Sustainability is also a high priority for us: we are committed to a healthy future, not only for people, but also for the planet. In line with these values, we aim to be a creative and inspiring place to work, where everyone feels at home, safe and valued. It's all about who you are and what you bring to contribute, regardless of your background. Together, we work toward a sustainable and inclusive future, both for the people around us and for the world we live in. Together, we are LUMC.  

More information

• As a postdoc, your salary will be between € 3,598, and € 5,669, gross per month (scale 10 CAO UMC). These figures are based on a full-time position.
• The procedure involves several stages. The first interview rounds are scheduled to take place in the week of April 6. A second interview, including a presentation will be held on April 14^th or 15^th.
• Important note: the ultimate start date of the project is June 1^st, 2026.
• Applications from employment/recruitment agencies will not be considered.