Postdoctoral Researcher – Molecular Drivers of BRCA1-Related Precancer

About the role

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the Gray Foundation Team Science project at the Netherlands Cancer Institute (NKI) in Amsterdam. The project focuses on uncovering the molecular drivers of the earliest steps of breast cancer initiation in BRCA1 mutation carriers, combining human tissue biology, single‑cell genomics, spatial imaging and functional mouse models.

Key responsibilities

• Map the genetic and phenotypic landscape of BRCA1‑deficient precancerous cells from prophylactic mastectomy specimens.
• Develop and apply a novel mouse model that reports Cre‑mediated loss of heterozygosity in real time.
• Introduce candidate driver genes via intraductal lentiviral delivery of Cre, cDNA overexpression or CRISPR guides.
• Perform whole‑mount imaging of mammary glands at single‑cell resolution to quantify clone persistence, expansion and early lesion formation.
• Investigate immune‑epithelial interactions influencing clonal survival and tumorigenesis.

Required profile

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, cancer biology or a related field.
• Experience with mouse genetics and in vivo imaging techniques.
• Strong background in genomics, especially single‑cell or spatial approaches.
• Ability to design and execute CRISPR‑based functional screens.

Required skills

• Single‑cell genomics
• Spatial imaging
• Mouse modeling and intraductal lentiviral delivery
• CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
• Quantitative in vivo imaging and whole‑mount microscopy

What we offer

• Access to a world‑leading functional breast cancer platform.
• Collaboration with an international, multidisciplinary team.
• Opportunity to translate basic discoveries into clinically relevant cancer interception strategies.