You will work in a team that studies muscular dystrophies such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In these patients, genetic mutations lead to muscle weakness and progressive loss of motor skills eventually leading to wheelchair dependency and death. The reduction of force is mirrored by the replacement of muscle mass by adipose tissue, affecting the contractile capability of skeletal muscle. In this project you will study spatial distribution of gene expression in muscle tissue of multiple forms of muscular dystrophy to understand the mechanism behind the conversion of muscle mass into adipose tissue. You will work in a multi-disciplinary team, interacting with molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, radiologists and neurologists.

You should have a master degree in biomedical sciences, molecular biology, bioinformatics or a related field. A solid background in molecular biology and experience with data analysis are advantageous. You are a quick learner, with excellent communication skills in English. You will work in an international team, use state of the art sequencing and molecular biology technologies, present data and write articles. Most importantly, you are highly motivated, perseverant, a high achiever and you are a team player.

Fixed-term contract: 4 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 € 2,422 gross per month in the first year, amounting to € 3,103 (scale PhD students, CLA UMC).

Leiden University Medical Center

At the Leiden University Medical Center, we continuously work on improving patient care. We invest
in groundbreaking, international research and work with the latest equipment. Together with our
team of doctors, medical specialists, teachers, academic researchers and supporting staff, we aim for
the best quality in health care, education and international research. And we need you to realize our
goals!

The Department of Human Genetics

The Department of Human Genetics is a broadly oriented research department, led by Professor Silvère van der Maarel, focusing on the genetic aspects of monogenic, multifactorial and acquired diseases, and the translation into clinical relevance. The department consists of 21 research units, embedded in four overarching research themes. The DMD genetic therapy group consists of approximately thirteen lab members working on different aspects of the pathology, such as genetic therapy, biomarkers, behavioral studies and to drug repurposing.