Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Epidemiology

We are seeking an ambitious and creative Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to innovative studies in cancer epidemiology. Within the group of Dr Gordon (Gordie) Watt, the selected candidate will carry out projects focused on the relationship between autoimmunity, cancer, and the late effects of cancer treatment. The postdoc will have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers of various disciplines at the NKI and beyond.

This position is funded by the European Research Council Starting Grant, “Immuno-SBC” (PI: G. Watt). As part of this study, you will use data from large cohorts of cancer survivors in the Netherlands and beyond to understand the relationship between autoimmunity, cancer therapy, and subsequent breast cancer risk. You will establish population-based linkages, develop analytic tools for genetic data, and contribute to statistical modelling.  In addition to pre-specified work outlined in the Starting Grant, you will have the opportunity to develop related, independent lines of research in preparation for a tenure-track research position. To that end, you will also supervise PhD and Master students, develop grant proposals, and make valuable contributions to the academic community.  

As a postdoc at the Netherlands Cancer Institute, you will:

• Join a vibrant, international community of scientists from various disciplines;

• Present research at local symposia and international scientific meetings;

• Obtain training to deepen your research skills;

• Prepare and submit grant proposals to support future research.

The Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI)

Approximately 550 people work in research at the NKI, including many clinician-scientists. Regular discussions, lectures and seminars allow for exchange of ideas and new collaborations. With postdocs, students and staff members from around the world, there is a distinctly international atmosphere at the Institute. The Watt Group is positioned within the Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiological (PSOE). Postdocs complete a course tailor-made for postdoctoral researchers, have regular opportunities to present their research, and have access to career development resources.

We are searching for a highly motivated postdoctoral investigator with the following expertise and experience:

• A PhD in Epidemiology, Population Science, Statistics, or a related field

• A demonstrated interest in population science research. Candidates without population science / Epidemiology research experience will not be considered.

• Experience in the analysis of germline genetic data at the population level

• Good verbal and written English language skills

• Preferably, comfort with high-performance computing environments and related skills (command-line scripting and resource management)

• A collaborative and open-minded approach to research

Your development opportunities and employment conditions

The basis for your employment conditions is in accordance with the CLA Hospitals. You will receive from us:

• A temporary employment for a period of 2 years, based on 32-36 hours per week, and potentially extended to 2 additional years;

• A gross monthly salary between € 4.723,- and € 5.289,-, based on a 36-hour working week, in line with FWG55 and depending on your experience and status of PhD finalization;

• 144 holiday hours and 57 hours of Personal Life Budget, with full-time employment;

• Annual holiday pay of 8.33% and a fixed end-of-year bonus of 8.33%;

• A travel allowance of €0.23 per km;

• Free parking at the Netherlands Cancer Institute. And with our bicycle plan and discount on public transport we also make it attractive for you to leave the car at home;

• A great opportunity in a specialized hospital where you can also continue to learn and grow yourself if you wish: the AVL Academy offers innovative and inspiring education in the field of oncology professional knowledge, skills and personal development;

• Opportunity to exercise during working hours at our Fit Boutiqs;

• An active staff association.

Interested?

Apply now by using the apply/solliciteer button at the top of the page! Please attach your CV, contact details of two references, and a cover letter describing education, research accomplishments, and short- and long-term research goals. You can only upload two files to the submission system, so make sure to merge your CV and references into one PDF.

For further information about the position, please contact Gordon Watt, via g.watt@nki.nl.

The closing date is November 21st 2025.