The LUMC department of Human Genetics offers an NWO-funded PhD position on epigenetics in immune cells. The research project aims to elucidate the epigenetic mechanisms that regulate early B and T cell development, and will be executed in a collaborative environment with the LUMC Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion (Prof. Frank Staal). You will have the opportunity to apply a combination of epigenomics (ATAC-seq, ChIP-seq, RNA-seq), genetics, molecular biology and state-of-the-art flow cytometry assays, to dissect the molecular function of a chromatin binder in early lymphoid development. You will work in a highly motivated and multidisciplinary team of epigenetic and immunology researchers studying epigenetic regulation in health and disease.

You should have a Master’s degree or equivalent in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology or related studies. A conceptual background in epigenetics/immunology, and experience with the analysis of next generation sequencing data will be a distinct advantage. Permission to carry out experimental animal research (in Dutch: ‘artikel 3A certificaat’, previously article 9) is a plus. A flexible work approach and excellent written and oral communication skills (in English) are essential, as well as the ability to work effectively within an international team. Above all, you are enthusiastic, ambitious and result driven.

Fixed-term contract: maximum of four years.

You will be employed on the basis of a 36-hour week. Appointment is for a maximum of four years, to be completed with a doctoral thesis. Your salary is € 2,279 gross per month in the first year, progressing to € 2,919 gross per month in the fourth year based on a full-time position (scale PhD students of the 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.

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. The Department consists of twenty self-contained research groups that perform research in 4 different themes. 

 The Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion combines fundamental and translational research in the areas of Immunotherapy of Cancer, Transplantation and Autoimmunity and Regenerative Medicine. The PhD project fits within the LUMC profile area Immunity, Infection and Tolerance, and that of Regenerative Medicine.