Polycystic Kidney Disease is characterized by the formation of many fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. The number and size of cysts increase over time, finally causing renal failure. The main focus of our research is to unravel the disease mechanism with the aim to develop therapies. To this aim, mouse models, cell lines and organoids are being used with (tissue-specific) disruption of the gene involved, in combination with molecular biological, genetic and drug identification strategies. In the current project, we will identify and functionally characterize critical molecular pathways involved in cystic tissues, with the goal to identify key molecules involved in progressive cyst formation. You will apply molecular-biological techniques combined  with (single cell) sequencing, bioinformatics, cell biology, microscopic analyses and animal studies.

In Short

·       You must – at the date of recruitment – be within the first four years (full-time equivalent research experience) of your research career and not have a doctoral degree

·       You have not lived in the Netherlands for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the recruitment date.

·       You hold an MSc Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biopharmaceutical Sciences or similar

·       You have demonstrable experience with molecular and cell biological techniques and lab skills

·       You have affinity with bioinformatics

·       Experience with animal research is to your advantage

You should have a master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biopharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. You have demonstrable experience with molecular and cell biological techniques and lab skills and you have affinity with bioinformatics. You are a critical thinker, independent and flexible, and able to work in a team. You are an efficient worker and possess excellent communication skills. Experience with animal research is beneficial.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

You will be employed on the basis of 36 hours per week. Appointment is for a maximum of four years.. Your salary will start with € 2,422 gross per month in the first year, amounting to a maximum of  € 3,103  gross per month in the fourth year based on a fulltime position (scale for PhD students 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!