Daan Vorselen

Dr. Daan Vorselen is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell Biology and Immunology at Wageningen University & Research. He holds an interdisciplinary background in biology (Leiden University) and biophysics (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam), with postdoctoral training at Stanford University and the University of Washington. His research focuses on the role of physical forces in immune cell dynamics, particularly in phagocytosis and efferocytosis. Key methodologies include deformable microspheres for force sensing and advanced microscopy techniques. Current projects explore mechanobiology approaches, phagocytic cup shaping, and molecular regulation of cellular cleanup processes in diseases like cancer and neurodegeneration.

Education:

• Bachelor/Master in Biology, Leiden University
• PhD in Biophysics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
• Postdoctoral Research: Stanford University and University of Washington with Julie Theriot

Research Interests:

His work combines biophysical techniques with molecular biology to study how mechanical forces influence immune cell behavior. Central themes include:

• Mechanical regulation of phagocytosis and efferocytosis
• Role of physical forces in immune response evasion by cancer cells
• Development of tools like hydrogel microspheres for force measurement
• Genome-wide screens to identify phagocytosis regulators

Scientific Contributions:

• Recipient of CRI Irvington Fellowship (postdoc)
• Recent grants: NWO-M1 and VLAG awards for immune-mechanical studies
• Collaborations with institutions like the Morgan Huse lab and Michael Bassik lab

Lab Activities:

The Vorselen Lab actively mentors MSc students and PhD candidates, focusing on interdisciplinary training. Current opportunities include funded PhD positions in immune mechanobiology and phagocytosis dynamics. The lab also engages in international conferences and hosts visiting researchers.