Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequent endocrine disorder in women that is linked with subfertility, obesity and insulin resistance. Its cause is still poorly understood. Several studies suggest that women with PCOS have disturbed eating behavior. Altered food preference leading to a poor diet is characteristic of women with PCOS. The gut hormone ghrelin, also known as the "hunger hormone", may play a crucial role in these modified eating behaviours.

The laboratory of Metabolism and Reproduction in the Department of Internal Medicine has a vacant PhD position for a project aimed at understanding the role of ghrelin in altered feeding behaviours. Established mouse models will be used to study the impact of PCOS on eating/food-choice behaviour and metabolism, assessed using a metabolic cage system. The role of ghrelin in these effects will be examined using ghrelin signaling deficient mice and ghrelin antagonists.

You are an excellent candidate with an MSc in Biology, Biomedical Sciences or a related discipline. Experience with molecular biology and metabolic physiology, and experience with animal studies (art.9 certified) is strongly preferred. You are highly motivated, independent and capable of working in a multidisciplinary environment. You have excellent communication and writing skills.

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 € 2.279,- in the 1st year and increases to € 2.919,- 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 Internal Medicine is a large department with several research groups. The research group "Metabolism and Reproduction" focuses on aspects of metabolic differences between men and women. We approach our research questions using physiological and cellular techniques, both in animal models and in humans. An important principle that guides our efforts is the possibility to apply our findings in the clinic and, vice versa, paying attention to questions that arise in the clinic when treating patients. You will be a member of a team that consists of other PhD students, basic scientists and clinical scientists.