DNA replication is an essential but a precarious cellular process of central importance both to the development of cancer and its treatment. Indeed, failures in the replication process, for instance mutations in critical elements of the replication machinery, contribute to genome instability, an early event in tumorigenesis. Yet many commonly used anti-cancer drugs interfere with DNA replication precisely to enhance the intrinsic genomic instability of the cancer cell in order to induce fatal DNA damage. A serious problem in treating cancer is the acquired resistance of cancer cells towards the widely used chemotherapeutic drugs.

Through our research, we are trying to obtain a mechanistic understanding of the cellular processes that render cells sensitive or resistant to commonly used chemotherapeutic treatments. The focus of this project is to understand the mechanistic link between chromatin remodeling pathways and the stability of DNA replication machinery to concomitant genome stability. Our lab uses multiple model systems that can be genetically manipulated including cultured human cells, mouse tumor models, and 3D-organoids which we combine with high-throughput cell biology, genomic and biochemistry techniques to gain deeper understanding into the mechanisms underlying stabilization of DNA replication and genome stability. A PhD student working on this project will be guided by a supervisor and will be expected to organize, design and perform experiments with the ability to analyze the data independently. He/She will present the data in our regular lab meetings, department work discussions and scientific conferences.

We seek a highly motivated researcher with an MSc Degree in a Molecular Biology/Bio-technology Domain. Experience with mammalian cultured cells imaging, animal experiments and molecular/genetic work is highly valued. The skills to communicate science and working in collaborative enviornment are some of the critical requirements for the position.

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 Chromatin Remodeling & Replication group (Department of Molecular Genetics) studies the role of chromatin organization and DNA replication in efforts towards the treatment as well as prevention of tumorigenesis. The interdisciplinary team at our department at Erasmus MC brings together world-class facility and expertise to study genetics, cell biology, molecular imaging techniques on cultured as well as clinical samples. We are also in a close collaboration with the laboratory at NKI (Netherlands Cancer Institute) to generate and study mouse tumor organoids.