Position Overview
As a bioinformatician in the Tytgat group, you will work on projects involving cell-free DNA (cfDNA) using various sequencing platforms, with a primary focus on Illumina. The goal is to identify tumor (driver) aberrations that can be translated into clinical applications for the development of precision medicine in pediatric cancers.
We are seeking a highly motivated bioinformatician to analyze next-generation sequencing (NGS) data and develop or optimize computational pipelines for detecting genetic aberrations, particularly in kidney tumors, sarcomas, and neuroblastomas. You will work at the intersection of clinical research and high-performance computing in a multidisciplinary team.
Responsibilities
- Develop and optimize diagnostic pipelines for cfDNA analysis, in close collaboration with the diagnostics team at the Prinses Máxima Center.
- Analyze high-throughput tumor and cfDNA sequencing data, including whole exome sequencing, gene panels, and shallow whole-genome sequencing.
- Work closely with collaborators within the Princess Máxima Center, including Dr. Patrick Kemmeren and Dr. Jayne Hehir-Kwa from the Bioinformatics Group and Big Data Core Facility.
- Possibility to contribute to projects involving structural variant detection, transcriptome analysis (including refinement of RNA qPCR approaches), and DNA methylation profiling aimed at improving tumor classification.
Profile
We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Bioinformatician to join our team. Ideal candidates will possess:
- BSc or MSc in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Life Sciences or a related field.
- Hands-on experience in bioinformatics, particularly in high-throughput DNA sequencing analysis.
- Proficiency in programming languages, including R, Python, and Unix/Linux.
- Experience with workflow management systems and working on high-performance computing (HPC) clusters is preferred.
- At least 3 years of relevant experience.
- Solid knowledge of genomics, with additional experience in epigenomics and transcriptomics preferred.
- Strong interest in pediatric cancer and translational oncology.
- A team player who is adaptable, collaborative, and eager to learn.
What do we offer
We offer a challenging role in a multidisciplinary environment that combines clinical oncology, genomics, and liquid biopsy research. The position is for 0.8–1.0 FTE based on a 36-hour work week. You will receive mentorship from experienced clinical and computational researchers. The contract is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension. Your gross monthly salary will be based on your experience and background (FWG 50 BSc, FWG 55 MSc, FWG 60 PhD) with a minimum of €3.263,- euro and maximum of €5.861,- gross per month for a full-time working week.
Employment terms follow the “CAO algemene ziekenhuizen” collective labor agreement. The starting date is flexible, with a target in Q2 of 2025.
The Tytgat group
Our group is committed to translational research aimed at addressing critical challenges in pediatric oncology. We employ a variety of advanced techniques, including RNA-based qPCR, DNA qPCR, digital droplet PCR, whole exome sequencing, targeted panel sequencing, and methylation-sensitive methods such as cfRRBS and EM-seq. By leveraging cfDNA-based sequencing, we seek to improve diagnostic accuracy, detect minimal residual disease (MRD), and monitor therapy responses. Ultimately, our goal is to translate these innovative methods into clinical practice to significantly enhance patient outcomes. Our research primarily targets major pediatric solid tumors, including neuroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and renal tumors.
The Princess Máxima Center
The Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology is an integrated hospital and research institute, which integrates healthcare, research and education on pediatric cancer, in a single location in Utrecht. Our institute aims to provide the highest level of care for all children with cancer, with optimal quality of life. The center brings together the best possible care and scientific research, creating a unique interdisciplinary institute for pediatric oncology in Europe.
Contact and application
Are you excited about this position? We are looking forward to meeting you! You can apply directly by clicking on the orange button on this page. You can apply until June 1, 2025. Please provide:
- An up-to-date resume/CV.
- A one-page motivation letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position.
- Contact information for 2–3 references.
For more details about this position or to arrange an informal chat, please contact Emmy Wesdorp, bioinformatician at the Tytgat group. Emmy will be happy to answer any questions and provide additional details.
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