The presence of DNA damage is a major complication during gene transcription. The transcription-coupled DNA repair (TCR) pathway ensures the efficient removal of transcription-blocking DNA damage from active genes, but the underlying mechanisms are not understood. Work in the Luijsterburg lab is focused on understanding these mechanisms. In the current project, funded by an ENW-klein grant from NWO, you will study the TCR pathway by employing biochemical, proteomics and genetics approaches to reveal how the TCR proteins work together and interact with each other to orchestrate efficient removal of transcription-blocking DNA damage. To this end, you will use CRISPR-Cas9-mediated genome editing, combined with protein cross-linking coupled with mass spectrometry (XL-MS) and proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID).

Summary of the required skills

·        You have a PhD degree in cell or molecular biology

·        You will work on unravelling mechanisms of DNA repair during gene transcription

·        You have multiple years of experience as a researcher and preferably on the subject of DNA repair

You hold a PhD in cell or molecular cell biology. You are highly motivated and have proven research abilities and an excellent publication record. Experience with research on DNA repair mechanisms is an advantage. Excellent skills in molecular biology and cell biology are essential. Ideally, you have expertise in one or more of the following techniques: human cell culture, fluorescence microscopy, proteomics, immunoprecipitation and CRISPR/CAS9-based genome engineering. You are organized, accurate, possess excellent communication skills in English, and you are willing and able to work both independently and also collaboratively as part of a dynamic team.

You will be employed on the basis of 36 hours per week. Appointment is for a minimum of 1 year, possibly to be extended to up to another 2 years. Your salary is based on your education and experience and is a maximum of  € 4,481  gross per month for a full time position (scale 10 in the Collective Labour Agreement for University Hospitals).

LUMC

At the Leiden University Medical Center, we continuously work on improving patient care. We invest in groundbreaking, international research and work with the latest equipment. Together with our team of doctors, medical specialists, teachers, academic researchers and supporting staff, we aim for the best quality in health care, education and international research. And we need you to realize our goals!

Department of Human Genetics

The Department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department, led by Professor Silvère van der Maarel, focusing on the genetic aspects of monogenic, multifactorial and acquired diseases, and the translation into clinical relevance. The department consists of 21 research units, embedded in four overarching research themes. You will be part of the research group of Dr. Martijn Luijsterburg and in one of the research laboratories that comprises the Genetic Instability and Cancer cluster. This cluster aims at elucidating the cellular response to different DNA-damaging agents and its relevance for human health, focusing on the mechanisms that underlie DNA repair and mutagenesis. The expertise and technical facilities of these DNA repair research groups are highly complementary, constituting a collaborative environment for cutting-edge research in the DNA repair field. Outstanding facilities for advanced live-cell imaging, genetic screening and interaction proteomics are available. The Luijsterburg group occupies a strong national and international position with collaborations with other academic partners across Europe and in the US and with strong links with patient organisations for DNA repair-deficiency syndromes.