Max Hulsman

Research

For my project, I will investigate how the ubiquitin-proteasome system regulates the expression of membrane proteins. Ubiquitination, a key post-translational modification, controls protein fate through mechanisms such as proteasomal degradation, regulation of endosomal recycling or degradation of membrane proteins, and activation of signaling pathways that induce protein synthesis. Given its central role in controlling membrane protein expression, targeting this system holds therapeutic promise for enhancing anti-tumor immune responses. Preliminary studies in our lab have demonstrated the potential of this novel ubiquitin-targeting therapy. To uncover the underlying mechanisms, I will focus on characterizing the surface proteome of both immune and cancer cells at the single-cell level, aiming to better understand and target the interactions governing the immune response.

Curriculum vitae

I obtained my Master’s degree from Utrecht University. Throughout my program I had the opportunity to deepen my laboratory skills and immerse myself in the dynamic field of immunology through two research projects. My first project was conducted at the UMC Utrecht in the lab of Dr. Jeanette Leusen, where I investigated neutrophil-mediated ADCC in the context of IgA-based immunotherapy for cancer. Next, I moved to Boston to join the lab of Dr. Dougan at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. There, we demonstrated that IAP antagonism reprograms human macrophages to adopt a tumoricidal phenotype through induction of non-canonical, ubiquitin regulated, NFkB signaling (DOI: 10.1093/immadv/ltaf026). In August 2025, I joined Alfred Vertegaal's lab as a PhD student.