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During the very first Postdoc Appreciation Week, we are putting our postdocs in the spotlight. Postdoc Willem Cox explains how he contributes to innovation in immunotherapy and why broadening his horizons and making connections are so important at this stage of his career.
Can you briefly tell us who you are and what your research at Radboudumc entails?
My name is Willem Cox. I completed both my bachelor's and master's degrees in Molecular Life Sciences in Nijmegen, followed by my PhD at the Princess Máxima Center in Utrecht. I eventually returned to Nijmegen, to Radboudumc. In my postdoctoral research, I am working on improving the response to immunotherapy: how can we make tumors more recognizable to the immune system, so that patients benefit more?
Why did you choose a postdoctoral program at Radboudumc?
I had previously completed an internship here, knew the team leader, and felt comfortable with the working environment. When a vacancy arose, the decision was easily made. It was also practical: I reside in Nijmegen, and opportunities are primarily located here and in Oss. However, I did seriously consider pursuing a career in the private sector.
What personal motivation or fascination drives your research?
I find it fascinating to use the immune system to fight cancer. During my PhD, I worked in oncology, and now I work in immunology. The cross-pollination between these two fields really appeals to me, and I see a lot of potential in it.
What does your role as a postdoc look like in practice?
I bring new knowledge and methods to the department. For example, I introduced a genetic screening method (CRISPR screen), which we use to switch off genes on a large scale to see whether this makes the tumor more recognizable to the immune system. At the same time, I am learning a lot myself. It is a two-way street: what do you bring to the table and where do you develop yourself? I also work closely with PhD candidates and supervise them, which is something I really enjoy about my position.
What do you think is the most important contribution that postdocs make to Radboudumc and to science in a broader sense?
A PhD candidate is often very focused on his or her own results, but as a postdoc you take a broader view and also offer support to PhD candidates and ensure connections within the organization. I also contribute through a committee of the Works Council, where my perspective as a researcher proves valuable in decision-making. This creates a team that complements each other.
Postdoc Appreciation Week is all about visibility and appreciation. What does that appreciation mean to you personally?
The position of postdocs is often somewhat neglected: temporary contracts, little security, sometimes having to relocate for a new position. That causes unrest. Appreciation starts with recognizing that situation. I think it's good that workshops and courses are being organized to help you further, such as the Talent Track sessions on your next steps in your scientific career path.
How do initiatives such as the Postdoc Council and Talent Tracks help you in your development?
I see that there are more and more opportunities to broaden your horizons and pursue interests outside your research. This works especially well for postdocs who actively seize those opportunities. It offers scope to make choices and chart your own course.
Postdocs are often at a crossroads in their careers. How do you see your future, within or outside Radboudumc?
I once said that I would never do a PhD, and now here I am as a postdoc. It's hard to predict. My contract runs for another two years, and then I'll see. I can't imagine myself as a research group leader yet, but who knows. I'm certainly not ruling out a career in business either.
Finally, what advice would you give to other postdocs?
Actively seize the opportunity to broaden your horizons; it is incredibly valuable. But you do need intrinsic motivation for this, otherwise it won't work. And supervisors also play a role in this: they must offer and encourage these opportunities.
