"PhD position - bioinformatica / microbioom"

Job Summary: This PhD position involves researching the gut microbiome's role in cancer immunotherapy, focusing on bacterial strains and genes associated with treatment response and side-effects using metagenomic sequencing and metabolomics data from observational cohorts and trials.

Responsibilities: The candidate will generate and work extensively with metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), conduct pangenome and longitudinal strain-tracking analyses, and combine bioinformatics and statistical methodologies to identify bacterial strains that elicit anticancer immune responses while minimizing side-effects. The role is embedded in the department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University Medical Center Groningen, within the Groningen Microbiome Hub.

Qualifications and Requirements: A Master’s degree or equivalent in computational biology, bioinformatics, or microbiome-related fields. Proficiency in R/Python and command line. Strong collaborative spirit for interdisciplinary team work, excellent organizational and networking skills, and strong English communication skills, both written and verbal.

What the Employer Offers: A fixed-term appointment for 3 years, with possible extension for another year. Initial contract for one year, extendable based on performance. Salary ranging from a minimum of €3,017 gross per month in the first year to a maximum of €3,939 from July onwards. Additional benefits include 8% holiday pay, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and a stimulating work environment with opportunities for professional development in microbial bioinformatics.