Key Skills

Job Description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated MD PhD candidate with a strong interest in translational research and stem cell biology, who is eager to contribute to improving long-term outcomes and quality of life for survivors of childhood cancer. Research project This project is embedded in an ongoing clinical/translational study investigating the long-term function of and integrity of transplanted hematopoietic stem cells in survivors of childhood cancer. As an MD/PhD student, you will be involved in the full spectrum of translational research, from clinical studies to fundamental stem cell biology. You will coordinate patient recruitment, collect and analyze clinical data, perform experiments to investigate the molecular characteristics of hematopoietic cells, and relate these findings to previous clinical exposures and long-term outcomes You will work closely with another PhD student, a research nurse, and a postdoctoral researcher, as well as with clinicians, nurses and other members of our team. Within the context of the study, you are highly encouraged to develop and pursue your own research hypotheses and ideas. This four-year project is funded by KiKa (Children Cancer-free Foundation). Ultimately, the results are expected to contribute to more effective, safer stem cell transplantation strategies, improving long-term hematopoietic health, survival, and quality of life of children with cancer. Your profile We are looking for a motivated, curious, and proactive MD-PhD candidate who is excited about understanding how hematopoietic stem cells regenerate blood. You have a genuine interest in fundamental biology and are eager to translate biological insights into clinical impact. You have a mind-of-your own and enjoy asking questions, exploring new ideas, and taking initiative. You are well organized, communicate effectively, and are comfortable working in a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment. You enjoy interacting with patients and collaborating with people from different backgrounds, including nurses, pediatric hematologists, researchers, and fellow PhD students. Above all, you are a team player who is enthusiastic about contributing to both the scientific progress and the collaborative culture of our research group. Qualifications MD degree Excellence in the Dutch language, essential for patient recruitment and communication Demonstrated research experience and a strong interest in fundamental stem cell biology Affinity for translational research, preferably in pediatric hematology/oncology Excellent spoken and written English Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills A pro-active and creative mindset, with the ability to work independently as well as in a team Our job offer This is a challenging and exciting position within a unique, internationally renowned pediatric oncology research hospital, offering the opportunity to engage in the full scope of translational childhood cancer research. You will gain hands-on experience in patient-oriented research, molecular assays, and laboratory-based functional studies. In addition, you will have the opportunity to take ownership of your research, develop your own hypotheses, and actively contribute to the scientific direction of the research, while benefiting from close supervision and collaboration within an enthusiastic, multidisciplinary research team. Initially, you will be offered a one-year temporary position, which will be extended to a total of four years upon satisfactory performance. Your gross monthly salary will start at FWG 50-6, amounting to €4.346 for a full-time working week (36 hours). In addition, you will receive an 8.33% holiday allowance and an 8.33% end-of-year bonus. The Princess Máxima Center operates according to the collective labour agreement (CAO) for hospitals (cao ziekenhuizen). The Belderbos Group More than 30 research groups conduct research into childhood cancer in the Princess Máxima Center. Together, these groups cover a broad spectrum of expertise, tumor types and technologies. The Belderbos group focuses on hematopoietic stem cell biology. Our aim is to unravel the fundamental mechanisms by which human hematopoietic stem cells (re-)generate blood, and to translate this knowledge into improved therapies for children with intrinsic or acquired bone marrow failure and those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We combine clinical research with state-of-the-art single-cell technologies and functional assays to study blood and bone marrow samples of pediatric patients and healthy donors. We work closely with stem cell transplant clinicians and several other research groups, both within the Princess Máxima Center and (inter-)nationally. Core values in our group are collaboration, curiosity and clinical impact. We believe that great science comes from sharing ideas, asking questions, taking responsibility, and working together. The Princess Máxima Center The Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology is a research hospital concentrating healthcare, research and education with regard to cancer in children in a single location in Utrecht. The 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. Sluitingsdatum: 6 december 2026

Core Responsibilities

Coordinate patient recruitment, collect and analyze clinical data, and conduct experiments on the molecular characteristics and function of hematopoietic cells. Relate research findings to patients’ prior clinical exposures and long-term outcomes, while developing independent research hypotheses in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.

Requirements

An MD degree, excellent Dutch, strong spoken and written English, research experience, and a strong interest in fundamental stem cell biology are required. Candidates should have an affinity for translational research, preferably in pediatric hematology or oncology, along with strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills and the ability to work proactively both independently and in a team.

Benefits

• Holiday Allowance
• End-of-Year Bonus