Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses pose a major challenge to human and animal health. Zoonotic transmission of HPAI H5N1 viruses from infected poultry to humans often has fatal consequences and raises concerns about the potential for a new influenza virus pandemic in the human population. Moreover, HPAI H5N1 viruses, which are panzootic in poultry across three continents, continue to devastate the poultry industry, threaten wildlife and impact economics and well-being. HPAI viruses emerge from certain low pathogenic precursor viruses upon transmission from wild waterfowl to poultry. Despite the clear importance of this topic, we are lacking fundamental information about the genesis and pathogenesis of HPAI viruses. With this PhD project, we aim to fill fundamental gaps in our knowledge of HPAI viruses.

Your work will focus on understanding how and why HPAI viruses emerge in poultry species and also species-dependant pathogenicity of HPAI viruses in avian hosts. Your experimental work will include basic techniques in virology, state-of-the art molecular biology, reverse genetics, primary cell and continous line cell culture and use of animal models. The PhD project is funded through the DELTA-FLU consortium that was recently awarded by the European Commisson (H2020 program, https:// ec.europa.eu/programmes/horizon2020/en/what-horizon-2020). The overall aims of DELTA-FLU is to determine the key viral, host-related, and environmental factors that determine the dynamics of avian influenza in poultry and other host species, with the goal of improving prevention and control strategies against this important disease

We are looking for a PhD student that is enthusiastic and highly motivated with a MSc degree or equivalent from an accredited academic program in Biology, Biomedical or Molecular Sciences, Immunology, or (Veterinary) Medicine. Demonstrable experience with cell culture and various molecular and/or and virological techniques are necessary. Candidates should have an excellent command of the English language, both oral and written. To be appointed, candidates should possess or be willing to obtain article 9 authorization for animal handling. Candidates are expected to obtain their PhD in 4 years, with Prof.dr R.A.M. Fouchier as promotor and Dr. Mathilde Richard as a co-promotor.

Being able to present a certificate of good conduct is a condition for the appointment.

You will receive a temporary position for 4 years. The gross monthly salary is € 2.244,- in the 1st year and increases to € 2.874,- in the 4th year (scale OIO). The terms of employment are according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement for Dutch University Medical Centers (CAO UMC).

Erasmus MC

A healthy population and excellence in healthcare through research and education. This is what Erasmus MC stands for. Conducting groundbreaking work, pushing boundaries and leading the way. In research, education, and healthcare. We are practical people with a high level of expertise, working hard to improve and renew the healthcare of today and the public health of tomorrow.

The Department of Viroscience (virosciencelab.org/) at Erasmus MC employs more than 110 employees of different disciplines and runs an extensive experimental research program on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, prevention and treatment of infections by human and animal viruses. All necessary equipment to carry out the research proposed in the projects is available within the setting of the department. The Department of Viroscience harbors well-equipped clinical and experimental virology labs, in which all the virology, molecular biology, pathology and immunology techniques necessary for these projects are operational.