Summary
SPACE-MEL is an EU-funded MSCA Doctoral Network aiming to advance the next generation of spatial single-cell omics technologies for precision medicine. The program brings together top European universities, clinical partners, and innovative companies to address challenges in translating spatial biology to the clinic. Successful candidates will receive a thorough scientific education, a prestigious three-year MSCA Fellowship, a competitive salary (including mobility and family allowances), and the opportunity to participate in international courses and research visits.
PhD positions in the Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network SPACE-MEL (DC2), Erasmus MC, Netherlands
Designation
Doctoral Candidate (DC2): 3D spatial FUN-G&T-seq and/or scNMT-seq
At a Glance
| Category | Details |
| Host Institution | Erasmus University Medical Centre Rotterdam |
| Department | Department of Molecular Genetics |
| Working Hours | 36 hours |
| Supervisors | Dr. Miao-Ping Chien (Lead), Prof. Thierry Voet (Academic), Dr. Domenico Bellomo (Industry) |
Research Area
Spatial single-cell omics technologies, molecular biology, computational biology, pathology, and biomarker discovery. Specifically focusing on developing workflows for multimodal profiling of 3D melanoma models and tissue samples.
Location
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Supported Researchers: Applicants must be doctoral candidates. You must not already possess a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment (researchers who have defended their thesis but not yet received their degree are not eligible).
- Mobility Rule: You must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately preceding your recruitment date.
- Local Requirements: Applicants must fulfill the local entry requirements of the recruiting institutions.
Job Description
As the DC2 candidate, you will focus on developing a 3D spatial FUN-G&T-seq and/or scNMT-seq workflow. Key responsibilities and project goals include:
- Translating existing protocols into 3D melanoma organoid and immune cell co-cultures, fresh 200-400 μm tissue sections, or explants.
- Combining spatial FUNseq with single-cell genome and transcriptome sequencing and/or single-cell nucleosome, methylation, and transcriptome sequencing.
- Adapting the workflow to 3D light-sheet microscopy and addressing challenges linked to image quality, cell selection, tissue depth, and multimodal data integration.
- Participating in secondments with Dr. Chien’s group (for training in spatial FUNseq and image-guided single-cell isolation) and SkylineDx (to explore clinically oriented assays).
How to Apply
If you are excited about this position, you must submit your application directly through the “Apply” button on the Erasmus MC Vacancy Page. You will receive a confirmation of receipt from the recruiter right away.
Last Date to Apply
August 14, 2026 (14-08-2026)
