Applicants are invited to apply for a PhD position involving research on inherited Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). PKD is characterised 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 and to develop novel therapies. To this aim mouse models and 3D-cultured cell models have been developed in which the gene involved (PKD1) can be tissue-specifically disrupted.

In the current project, you will follow-up on a number of potential drug-candidates capable of inhibiting cyst growth in vitro. These hits were recently discovered by using a high-throughput compound screening. You will apply, in a collaborative effort, a multi-disciplinary approach combining in vitro experiments, in vivo studies, molecular profiling and chemo-informatics to navigate towards highly effective compounds and analogues, and gain insight in the their modes of action. 

You will apply molecular-biological techniques combined with animal studies, 3D organoid cell culture, cell biology and microscopic analyses. 

You are a highly motivated researcher with strong interest in signal transduction mechanisms. You hold (or will  shortly obtain) a MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Biology or equivalent. You have gained ample experience with molecular-biological and biochemical research techniques, and you have affinity with bioinformatics. You are a team-player, take initiative, are accurate and possess strong laboratory skills. You preferably have experience with animal research and have obtained an animal license (Art. 9.). Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential.

Fixed-term contract: four years.

You are employed on the basis of a 36-hour week. Appointment will lead to a PhD thesis and is for a maximum duration of four years. Your salary depends on your qualifications and experience, with a maximum of  € 2,266 gross per month in the first year, progressing to € 2,903 gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (scale for PhD students, Collective Labor Agreement for University Hospitals).

 The terms of employment offered by the LUMC are highly favorable. For example, you will receive 8% holiday remuneration, a year-end bonus, and a pension arrangement with the National Civil Pension Fund. Also, as employee of one of the University Hospitals in the Netherlands, you can benefit from our collective health insurance policy.

 Moreover, the LUMC offers excellent facilities in the area of education, child-care center, and career advice.

LUMC

At the Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), we are continually seeking to improve the quality of healthcare. The LUMC aims for excellence in patient care, research, teaching, training and continuing education.

Human Genetics

The LUMC is a center for medical innovation that aims to improve patient care through leading international research. So as to also provide our patients with a safe and friendly environment, we need doctors, medical care specialists, support staff and academic researchers. The department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department with focus on the (epi)genomic contribution to inherited and acquired diseases. Research on Polycystic Kidney Disease, led by prof. D.J.M. Peters (https://www.lumc.nl/org/humane-genetica/research/research-line-4/_developmental-genetics/) is a multidisciplinary program closely collaborating with other departments/institutes within the LUMC, Leiden University the Leiden Bioscience park. Several national and international research collaborations are coordinated from this group.