Epigenetics most often refers to processes, such as enzymatic modifications of DNA and numerous posttranslational modifications of the associated histone proteins, that lead to the transfer of genetic information from generation to generation, without changes in the underlying sequence of DNA. In order to understand the enormous intricacy of the epigenetic language, it is necessary to deepen our knowledge, at the atomic level, of biomolecular recognition of posttranslational modifications of histones.

As a PhD candidate, you will work on an ERC-funded project that aims to provide the most comprehensive and complete understanding of biomolecular recognition processes in epigenetics that play key roles in human health and disease. You will apply modern chemical biology tools in investigations of posttranslational modifications of histone proteins and you will examine how such modifications influence the complex nucleosome structure.

- an MSc degree in chemistry, biochemistry or molecular life sciences;
- experience with protein or peptide research;
- strong motivation and interest in working at the interface between chemistry and biology;
- excellent skills in written and spoken English.

Fixed-term contract: 4 years.

you will be appointed for an initial period of 18 months, after which your performance will be evaluated. If the evaluation is positive, the contract will be extended by 2.5 years
- you will be classified as a PhD candidate in the Dutch university job-ranking system (UFO).
the gross starting salary amounts to €2,222 per month, and will increase to €2,840 in the fourth year

Radboud University

Strategically located in Europe, Radboud University is one of the leading academic communities in the Netherlands. A place with a personal touch, where top-flight education and research take place on a beautiful green campus in modern buildings with state-of-art facilities.

Faculty of Science

The IMM’s goal is to provide world-leading research and training in the area of functional molecules and materials. The emphasis is on the understanding and harnessing of complexity to design materials with new functionalities. The IMM has a multidisciplinary character and encompasses theoretical and experimental groups with both physics and chemistry backgrounds. The infrastructure and expertise available enables ground-breaking research in all areas of materials science. For further information on the IMM see: www.ru.nl/imm/

No commercial propositions please.